THE DEAF SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES · Glenn Andrew Welldon, Cert IV Business Frontline Management,...

THE DEAF SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

How Can I Learn Auslan?

DEN, the education division of the Deaf Society, offers both unaccredited and accredited Auslan courses. Find out more details by phoning (02) 8833 3600 or check our website www.deafsocietynsw.org.au.

How Do Deaf People Communicate?

Deaf people communicate using a variety of methods.

Deaf people may use sign language, gestures and visual aids, lip-reading, reading and writing, or a combination of any or all of these.

It is important to allow the Deaf person to choose the method(s) of communication they prefer and respect their choice.

What Tips Can Assist With Communication?

Get the Deaf person’s attention before •starting the conversation (use a tap on the shoulder or a wave in the line of vision)

Flash overhead lights on and off to gain the •attention of a group of Deaf people

Maintain eye contact throughout the •conversation

Speak clearly but do not exaggerate lip •movements

Use simple sentences•Avoid messages with double meanings•Use gestures and visual aids relevant to •the topic

Ask the Deaf person to repeat back •important messages to check you are being understood

Be patient, relax and enjoy your •conversation

When Do Deaf People Use Interpreters?

Deaf people use interpreters to help them access information and participate in a range of situations such as:

Medical appointments•Legal and court situations•Employment interviews•Educational courses and training •opportunities

Special occasions such as weddings, •christenings and funerals

What Causes Deafness?

Deafness can be caused in a number of ways – genetically, through accident or illness, as a result of the ageing process or by enviromental factors, such as loud noise.

How Does Technology Help Deaf People?

Some Deaf people use technology such as hearing aids to help them communicate. Other forms of technology which assist Deaf people include special text telephones (TTYs), computers, SMS text mobile phones, web-cams, and video conferencing equipment.

The National Relay Service provides Deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired people with a number of solutions to help them communicate by phone. For further information about the NRS phone the helpdesk on 1800 555 660 (voice) or check the NRS website www.relayservice.com.au.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHO ARE THE DEAF COMMUNITY?

People who identify as belonging to the Deaf Community are generally people who:

Use Auslan (Australian Sign Language) •as their primary and preferred language

May or may not speak or lip-read•Participate and socialise in the Deaf •Community

Like to be called “Deaf”•Focus on the cultural aspects of their •deafness and do not necessarily want to be able to hear

Feel proud of their language, culture •and community

WHAT IS AUSLAN?

Auslan is the sign language used by the Deaf Community in Australia.

The word AUSLAN stands for AUstralian Sign LANguage. Auslan is a visual-spatial language which consists of manual signs, facial expressions and fingerspelling.

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The Deaf Society of New South Wales ABN 21 952 195 236

Our History

The Deaf Society of New South Wales was founded in 1913 in response to the needs of Deaf people who used sign language as their primary means of communication. The Society was incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee in 1922 and is a registered charity.

Our Belief

The Deaf Society believes that Deaf people should enjoy the same political, civil and human rights as other members of the community and we work with the Deaf Community to secure these rights.

Our Work

The Deaf Society of NSW is the leading provider of specialist services for Deaf people

and their families in New South Wales. The Society has extensive and proven expertise in the provision of services to the Deaf Community and is committed to ensuring quality outcomes.

The Society provides a range of support services for Deaf people, including those who may have additional needs due to visual impairment, cerebral palsy or developmental delay.

The Society’s two major goals are to educate and support members of the Deaf Community to enable them to access relevant services and to educate the wider community about the needs of Deaf people.

The Society provides core services in the traditional areas of need, such as welfare and counselling, community development, information, interpreting provision, advocacy, education and training and employment and workplace support.

Our Operations

The Deaf Society of NSW is a State-wide non-profit organisation, whose services for Deaf people are funded by government grants, sponsorship and contributions from donors and supporters, income earned from

investments and fees charged for services rendered.

The majority of the Society’s members are Deaf people who use Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Membership of the Society is open to anyone who agrees to abide by our Constitution and costs $10.00 per annum. Deaf people do not have to be members to gain access to our services.

A voluntary Board of Directors is elected by members at annual general meetings. Directors hold office for a three-year term and can stand for re-election at the end of each term. The Board provides strategic leadership and direction for the organisation. 52 qualified full-time and part-time staff are employed to carry out the Society’s operations.

As a Company Limited by Guarantee, the Society is accountable to our clients, members, donors and supporters, the Commonwealth and State Governments and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.

This report, a document of accountability, provides detailed information about our progress in achieving the Society’s goals.

Vision StatementTo deliver world class services to the Deaf Community of New South Wales.

Mission StatementTo work within the community to ensure that Deaf people achieve their full rights and fulfil their responsibilities as Australian citizens.

ValuesDeaf-friendlyEthicalAccountableFair

ContentsFrequently Asked Questions (i)

Overview of the Deaf Society 1

Office Bearers 2

At a Glance

Highlights of the Year 2

Results for the Year 2

President’s Report 3

Chief Executive Officers’s Report 4

Farewell Rebecca Ladd 5

Signs of Success - Update on the Strategic Plan 2007 – 2010 6

Focus on Families 8

Regional Services 10

Client and Community Services 11

Interpreting and Advocacy 12

Education and Training 13

Employment and Workplace Support 14

Finance and Administration 15

Organisational Chart 15

Human Resources 16

Financial Results 19

Honorary Treasurer’s Report 20

Directors’ Report 21

Auditor’s Independence Declaration 22

Balance Sheet 23

Statement of Recognised Income and Expenditure 23

Cash Flow Statement 24

Notes to the Financial Statements 24

Directors’ Declaration 30

Independent Audit Report tothe Members 30

Statement of Income and Expenditure 32

Acknowledgements IBC

Members IBC

Locations and Contact Details OBC

Board of Directors at the 2008 AGM (left to right): Glenn Welldon, Ken Deacon, Breda Carty, Peter Brownlee (retiring President), Tony Gorringe (President), Stewart McClay, George Barbouttis and Tiffany Fulde.

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Patron

Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir, AC, Governor of New South Wales

Vice Patron

Kenneth W Tribe, AC, LLB

President

Anthony Alan Gorringe, JP, NIA Assoc Dip Business

Board of Directors

Anthony Alan Gorringe, JP, NIA Assoc Dip Business – Chairman

Nicolas Jarvis, BA (Adelaide) – Deputy Chairman

George Michael Barbouttis, OAM, Dip Commerce, FCA, FCPA – Honorary Treasurer

Breda Carty, PhD, MA, Dip Ed, BA

Ken Deacon, JP, Grad Cert Management, Cert IV Auslan, Cert IV Assessment and Workplace Training

Tiffany Fulde

Alastair McEwin, MBA, BA, B Laws

Susanne Alexandra Rae, Dip Ed, BA (Sydney), MA (New York)

Glenn Andrew Welldon, Cert IV Business Frontline Management, Cert IV Information Technology, Cert IV Assessment and Work-place Training

Chief Executive Officer

Sharon Everson, JP, Diploma of Management (Community Management), Cert IV Assessment and Workplace Training

Honorary Solicitors

Patterson, Houen and Commins

Auditors

Benbow and Pike

Office Bearers

Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir, AC, Governor of New South Wales

Highlights of the Year

Launch of the Auslan Translation Service at NSW Parliament •House.

Production of a Community Service Announcement to help •promote the message “Think deafness is a disability? Think again!”

Held a very successful Deaf Family Day as well as a Deafair.•

Established two additional outreach services in regional areas in •Wollongong and Tamworth.

Conducted Crossing Borders Youth Camp for Young Deaf People.•

Established the Deaf Professionals Network.•

Results for the Year

2008/2009 2007/2008 2006/2007 2005/2006 2004/2005

Operating Income $4,597,586 $5,686,361 $4,199,612 $2,428,238 $2,688,161

Operating Expenditure $4,247,033 $3,796,197 $3,206,808 $2,177,574 $2,164,447

Surplus $350,553 $1,710,164 $992,804 $250,664 $523,714

Client & Community Services contacts

18,954 15,269 14,368 13,099 14,011

Regional visits 32 32 28 24 21

Interpreting assignments 4,456 4,073 3,711 2,465 2,799

Education courses 109 120 146 110 98

Employment – clients placed 38 35 28 20 20

At a Glance

Promoting the language and culture of Deaf people in the wider community improves awareness and understanding.

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The Deaf Society of NSW has a history as a key service provider for Deaf people and their families tracing back almost 100 years and it is my pleasure to present my first President’s Report to our members. The past twelve months have seen

many changes, challenges and opportunities for the Deaf Society and as I write this report, the Society has finalised a six month review of the senior management structure of our organisation.One of the most important duties of any Board is ensuring the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer, a significant role in the leadership of the organisation. Following the structure review, the Board decided to amalgamate the two previous executive director positions into a single Chief Executive Officer role. Sharon Everson, who had been serving in an acting capacity during the review, will take up this position from 1 July 2009.Having worked with Sharon over the past six months in her role as acting CEO, the Board has every confidence in her skills and commitment to the Deaf Society and the leadership she has already demonstrated. We believe she is a first class manager who encourages excellence and can ensure the Society’s continued success in representing the needs of the Deaf Community of New South Wales.

Corporate GovernanceThe Deaf Society, as a company limited by guarantee, operates under the same rules and obligations as other companies and our Directors face the same corporate responsibilities as do Directors of all companies. Some of the Board’s major

functions include ensuring funds are safeguarded and used effectively, providing strategic direction, including reviewing and monitoring strategic plans and budgets, ensuring adequate risk management controls are in place and ensuring the Deaf Society’s operations comply with current legislation.Directors continued to meet every two months to deal with matters focussing on ensuring responsible financial management and providing strategic direction, with an additional five meetings held as part of the structure review.During the year further changes occurred at Board level, with the resignations of Jane Innes and Stephen Matchett in November 2008. Dr Breda Carty, a lecturer in Special Education (Deaf and Hearing Impaired) at the Renwick Centre for Research and Professional Education and Alastair McEwin, a Director with the Combined Legal Centres Group NSW, were elected to fill these vacancies at the AGM. We are pleased to welcome Breda and Alastair and we are confident that their contributions to Board deliberations, as representatives of the Deaf Community, will be valuable. Tiffany Fulde, who had been appointed to a casual vacancy during 2008 was also elected at this meeting and George Barbouttis was re-elected for a further three year term. George was appointed to the position of Honorary Treasurer following the resignation of Stewart McClay in February 2009. I would like to place on record my appreciation to Jane, Stephen and Stewart for their contribution to the Deaf Society.Following the retirement of long serving President, Peter Brownlee, I was honoured to be elected to this position at the 95th Annual General Meeting. I would like to place on record our sincere appreciation for Peter’s support of the Deaf Society for the past 23 years, and for his guidance as President for the past nine years. I am very pleased and proud to take up this role, as the first Deaf President in the Deaf Society’s history.

It is pleasing to note how Board teamwork developed during the year, particularly during the structure review, I am grateful for such a strong, ongoing commitment from my fellow directors.

Financial Results for the YearA major goal of the Board of Directors and staff of the Society is working to ensure favourable financial results are maintained. As would be appreciated, this is never easy to achieve, particularly at a time when the international economy seems to be in significant difficulty.While the Board is determined that the quality and availability of programs must be maintained, the increased demand for services, particularly in rural and regional areas of the State, are placing a heavier financial burden on our limited resources.Although an operating surplus of $350,553 was achieved for the year, our final result, following the write down in fair valuation of investments was a deficit of $1,808,005. Additional financial information can be found in the financial reports (pages 22 to 32) and are highlighted in the Honorary Treasurer’s report (page 20). The Board, constantly aware of the challenges involved in maintaining revenue from investments to operate existing life important services for Deaf people, is currently carrying out a review of our investment strategies.

Future DirectionsOne of the major responsibilities of the Board of Directors is to develop strategies to improve the quality of existing services as well as addressing unmet needs identified through consultation with the Deaf Community.Many of our past successes in improving service provision have been gained through the development of partnerships, such as the expansion of regional services, the hosting of the National Relay Service Outreach Service (NRS-OS) and the merger with Deaf Education Network (DEN). We will continue to seek alliances which strengthen service provision for

members of the Deaf Community.The Board recognises the importance of research, review and consultation as key tools in service development and Directors are looking forward to working with stakeholders in formulating the 2010 – 2013 Strategic Plan.During the year the Deaf Society of New South Wales continued its vital work of supporting members of the Deaf Community. We also continued to provide a range of services to the wider hearing community, including provision of specialist Auslan interpreters and further educational opportunities for both Deaf and hearing people.This report would not be complete without acknowledging the support of everyone who helped to make the past twelve months such a success: our generous supporters for their financial contributions, our funding bodies, my colleagues on the Board, the assistance given by our Honorary Solicitor, Tony Houen, Patterson, Houen and Commins, our dedicated staff and most importantly, members of the Deaf Community.

Tony GorringePRESIDENT31 July 2009

President’s Report

Sharon Everson, appointed CEO from 1 July 2009 with Tony Gorringe, President and Rebecca Ladd at the 95th AGM.

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2008/2009 saw the Deaf Society undergo its most significant organisational change in the past decade. Following the resignation of Rebecca Ladd in January 2009, the Board of Directors undertook a review of the senior management structure of the Deaf Society. This review resulted in the Board resolving to amalgamate the two Executive Director positions into a single role of Chief Executive Officer. I was appointed acting Chief Executive Officer during the review and I was delighted to be offered the Chief Executive Officer position from 1 July 2009.

I would like to place on record my thanks to the Board for placing their confidence in my ability to lead the Deaf Society, an organisation which I am so proud to serve. I would also like to express my appreciation to all our staff for their patience and co-operation during the past six months. Sharon Nann, who undertook a short term contract as Director of Services during the past six months and Sheena Walters, who took on additional duties as Senior Manager, Services during this period deserve special mention. Their support and flexibility ensured we enjoyed a smooth transition period which enabled our existing programs to continue to run effectively. A permanent appointment to the position of Director of Services will be made in September 2009.

Due to uncertainty with lease arrangements for our current premises at Parramatta, coupled with the need for larger premises, we began seeking new premises in the early part of 2009. We were fortunate to locate suitable premises at 69 Phillip Street, Parramatta which are appropriate for our current needs and which provide the opportunity for expansion if required. The partial fit out of this location will provide substantial savings on capital furniture and fittings as the new office includes purpose built filing and IT rooms. We will take

up residence in our new home in August 2009 (a map setting out our new location is on the back cover). “Operation Relocation” has enabled us to review our IT and telecommunications requirements, training and education facilities and methods to implement technology which will improve access and equality for Deaf and hard of hearing people, such as webcams, loop systems and visual alerts.

In common with other not-for-profit

organisations who invest surplus funds in order to achieve an income stream for services, the Society has been affected by the current global financial situation. The reduction in expected income from investments was factored in when forecasting our budget for 2009/2010. We hope that financial markets improve in the near future to reduce any possible negative impact on our ability to self-fund services.

This year we achieved outstanding results against a number of department audits necessary for the continuation of recurrent funding. These audits are an important method to review and measure our successes against the Key Performance Indicators of various service plans. All reports were positive which reflect the strength of our systems and practices. We will continue to focus on remaining compliant with all requirements of funding bodies.

Current Trends

During the year a noticeable trend appeared in the rise of hard of hearing people approaching our Employment and Workplace Support department for assistance. We will continue

to investigate the methods of best practice in serving this particular group as well as continuing to address the needs of our Deaf clients. An employment support outreach service was established at Newcastle during the year and we plan to open a second regional office based at the Central Coast in July 2009 to help met the needs of regional Deaf job seekers.

The growth in the numbers of Deaf people now residing in regional areas was highlighted in the 2008 Willoughby Report. This year we opened additional regional offices in Wollongong and Tamworth. All our regional sites operate on a part-time basis and often only meet the tip of the iceberg in addressing the many challenges in access and equity issues faced by members of the Deaf Community in these areas. We will continue to seek additional government funding to assist us in improving and expanding our regional service provision.

This year saw major technological advances which can offer improved access for Deaf people, such as the Video Relay Service. We will continue to monitor and assess technology, both in Australia and overseas.

Research and Planning

It is important to ensure that our services remain relevant to our constituents. Studies such as the Willoughby Report and the Report into Future Services (undertaken with VicDeaf) assist us to identify trends in service. These reports, as well as the Seniors Report, currently being finalised, will provide the foundation for the development of our next Strategic Plan for 2010-2013.

In drafting our next Strategic Plan, we will ensure that we focus on and acknowledge both internal and external influences which will affect our service delivery. We will also review and evaluate existing services and seek

Chief Executive Officer’s Report

The Management Team – front row – Veronica de Ferrari, Sheena Walters, Sharon Everson, Sharon Nann, Michele Nealon; back row – John O’Neil, Stephen Nicholson, David Parker and Richard Aarden.

Our new head office from August 2009 – Level 4, 69 Phillip Street, Parramatta.

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in-depth feedback from the Deaf Community as well as other stakeholders. We want to ensure that future services meet the changing requirements of the Deaf Community.

Future Outlook

The past twelve months have seen many changes, challenges and opportunities for the Deaf Society of NSW which reflect the dynamic environment in which we operate. I look forward to working with our inspiring team in identifying new methods to engage and empower the Deaf Community and to continue to deliver sustainable services.

I also look forward to establishing closer ties with other key players in the Deaf sector, including Deaf Australia (both at a national and state level), Australian Federation of Deaf Societies, Australian Communication Exchange, Australian Sign Language Interpreters Association and Deafness Forum in raising issues of vital importance that require policy change as well as increased funding.

Highlights on how we met or exceeded the goals of our Annual Plan for 2008/2009 are set out on pages 6 to 10. We are delighted in our achievements to date and in the coming months we will concentrate our efforts in the following areas:

Training of regional teachers to deliver •deafness awareness training courses.

Provision of additional training opportunities •for Deaf people in regional areas.

Establishment of an on-line Deafness •resource library.

Establishment of a formal workplace •communications assessment program.

Expansion of the Deaf-Friendly Families •Program.

Creation of additional partnerships with •

aged care residential support services.

Development and distribution of resources •for mental health professionals who work with Deaf or hard of hearing people.

Promotion of the Auslan Translation Service •to encourage organisations to make their websites accessible for Deaf people.

Launching of Sign Language •Communications (SLC) – the national Auslan booking service.

Relocating the Deaf Society’s head office at •Parramatta.

This year’s achievements were made possible by team work. I would like to congratulate our staff for their dedication and commitment which helped the Deaf Society to achieve our vision – to deliver world class services to the Deaf Community of NSW. My thanks are extended to members of the Board of Directors for their guidance and encouragement. I would also like to thank members of the Deaf Community who provided valuable feedback about our services throughout the year.

I look forward to working with the Board, our staff, the Deaf Community and other stakeholders in shaping our future direction.

Sharon Everson


31 August 2009

Rebecca Ladd was farewelled in style on 21 March 2009, following her resignation from her position of Executive Director – Services in February. Over 150 friends, colleagues and clients joined together to say goodbye and thank Rebecca for her enormous contribution to the Deaf Community of NSW for the past two decades. Guest speakers took the opportunity to reminisce with Rebecca and to wish her well for the future.In responding, Rebecca explained that while many people come to a career by chance, she had made her career choice in high school when her interest in Auslan was sparked during a Theatre of the Deaf production. Rebecca reflected on her long and varied career, which involved different roles, ranging from providing support for Deaf people with disabilities; through to education; Auslan interpreting, culminating with her appointment as Executive Director - Services in 1999. Rebecca highlighted the many successes of her career, including lobbying for government funding for interpreting for medical and employment situations; the growth in regional services; the development of the bi-lingual website; the establishment of the Deaf Professionals Network; building successful relationships with other organisations and the successful merge with DEN. Rebecca also reminded everyone that while it was easy to focus on major achievements, the everyday work involved in assisting clients was also very important.We extend our sincere appreciation to Rebecca for her dedication to the Deaf Society and wish her every success for the future.

Farewell Rebecca Ladd

Cutting the farewell cake – Rebecca is assisted by husband, Mark and daughter, Hannah.

Tony Clews, MC, moves a toast of thanks to Rebecca following Colin Allen’s speech.

Former colleagues, Board members and members of the Deaf Community took the opportunity to thank you Rebecca at her farewell.

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The current Strategic Plan focuses on three key result areas – the development and provision of cutting edge programs and services, enhancing the accessibility for Deaf people and building a thriving organisation. Priorities this year included reviewing regional outreach services, providing mentoring and support to encourage paraprofessional interpreters to upgrade their skills to professional level, providing additional Auslan education opportunities for hearing people and developing visual Auslan translations of English information.

It became necessary to review and prioritise some projects for the coming year when developing the annual plan for 2009/2010 due to competing demands for services coupled with lack of resources. The outcome of this review will be included in the 2010-2013 Plan.

We plan to continue expanding the scope and effectiveness of our services by consulting with consumers, reviewing our systems and researching best practice of service delivery, both in Australia and overseas. We want to make sure that our services remain relevant to the Deaf Community.

Think Deafness is a Disability? Think again!

The Deaf Society was approached by a young Sydney filmmaker, Armand de Saint-Salvy, to provide advice for a short film he was developing. The film, “Beyond Words” (a 2009 Tropfest Finalist), is a really beautifully crafted thriller that explores deaf and blind perspectives. As Armand undertook research about deafness, he developed a growing passion to educate people about some of the general misconceptions about Deaf people. Armand offered to make a television

Signs of Success – Update on the Strategic Plan 2007-2010

Community Service Announcement with the key message “Think deafness is a disability? Think again!” for the Deaf Society to help address some of these misconceptions.

After seeing Lorraine Sorono in the audition stages of last year’s Australian season of “So You Think You Can Dance?” Armand recruited the Deaf Melbourne hip-hop dancer to play the central character. Lorraine, who became deaf when she was six months old, is passionate about promoting that deafness is not a DISability but an ability.

The Community Service Announcement ran across Australian free-to-air and cable television from February to May 2009. You

can see the ad and read an interview with Lorraine on the Deaf Society website: www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/information/csa.html.

Thank you Armand and Lorraine for helping spread the message that Deaf people CAN do anything.

Lorraine and her sister Demi (“So You Think You Can Dance?” Finalist) made a guest appearance to perform and teach dance moves to a group of Deaf youngsters at the Deaf Society’s 2008 Deafair.

Celebrating the launch of Auslan Info Bytes at NSW Parliament House - Don Jones (Executive Director, Office of Industrial Relations) Gerry Shearim (Auslan Interpreter), the Hon. John Hatzistergos, Tony Clews, Sharon Everson and Alastair McEwin (The Deaf Society of NSW).

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Relations who requested that information relating to conditions of employment be translated into Auslan for the Department’s website. “Auslan Info Bytes”, which includes information on leave entitlements, NSW awards and enterprise agreements, was launched by the NSW Minister for Industrial Relations, Hon. John Hatzistergos at NSW Parliament House on 30 June 2009.

We applaud the OIR for recognising the need for Deaf people to access important information in their native language and we would encourage all organisations provide information in Auslan.

Going to Court Legal Resource

The Deaf Society was fortunate to receive funding from the Law and Justice Foundation to produce an Auslan information resource for Deaf people dealing with the legal system. The “Going to Court” resource kit, which includes a glossary of legal terms, was launched by the NSW Attorney General, the Hon. John Hatzistergos at the offices of Blake Dawson on 24 February 2009.

Auslan Translation Service

The Deaf Society remains committed to its goal of providing accessible information in Auslan for Deaf people. We were delighted to be approached by the Department of Industrial

Deaf Professionals Network

One of the needs identified in the 2007-2010 Strategic Plan was the lack of support for Deaf people in the workforce to help with career advancement and professional development. We were delighted to launch the Deaf Professionals Network in November 2008. VicDeaf guests joined the launch party via DLink. Professional development opportunities offered to date include Managing your Career and Cultural Intelligence.

Auslan Only Weekend 3

Thirty students who attended the inaugural Auslan Only Weekend 3 (AOW3) met the challenge of remaining “voice off” for 48 hours. The highly successful weekend aimed to improve Auslan skills by ensuring that all participants used Auslan, rather than spoken English, for all everyday communication, not only within the group but also in social interactions during the weekend.

Keeping mum proved challenging for participants who ventured to a local bar on the Saturday evening and bumped into Hugh Jackman and his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness. Both were more than happy to sign autographs and pose for a photo with excited students.

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The Deaf Society’s Deaf-friendly Family Program is a multi-faceted, holistic approach to parenting support, including access to information, peer support and information sharing. We focus on early intervention for parents with newly diagnosed deaf children and support for Deaf parents as well as tailored programs for adolescents.We are proud to highlight our successes for the year.

Parent to Parent MentoringOver 90% of deaf babies are born to hearing parents. Often hearing parents have no previous experience of deafness and may feel isolated with few contacts with whom to compare and share their experiences.

Parents may also lack information on how to make decisions about technology, communication and education which will help their deaf child. This program also offers a way to arrange peer support, best practice guidelines and information to parents and carers involved in informal peer support and mentoring relationships. Parent to Parent Mentoring creates supportive relationships between parents of deaf children by matching appropriate mentors, who can offer the benefit of their experience and provide guidance, advice and support to other parents.

Auslan Heritage SchoolAuslan Heritage School is one of the ways we support hearing parents of deaf children acquire Auslan language skills. Parents are

offered the choice of three classes (beginners, intermediate and advanced) where they are taught Auslan by Deaf teachers. While parents are in class, deaf children and their hearing siblings attend a program of games and activities designed to develop language acquisition.

Sign’n’Tots PlaygroupSign’n’Tots is a special playgroup where Deaf mums, dads and grandparents can meet for coffee and a chat while pre-schoolers enjoy both indoor and outdoor supervised play. As well as offering an informal forum for discussion about family related matters, regular informative workshops focusing on child development are also scheduled.

Focus on Families

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Youth Group and Peer SupportYoung deaf people, particularly those of school age, can often experience social isolation and lack of opportunity to meet and develop peer relationships. The Deaf Society’s Youth Group provides a school holiday program which enables young deaf people with opportunities to meet and develop relationships with peers. This year’s activities included Laser Tag, captioned movies and a digital media course. We were fortunate to receive one-off funding to provide a sexual health information workshop in September where vital health information was disseminated to young Deaf people in Auslan.

Deaf Festival - Deaf Family DayDeaf Family Day 2009 was held on 17 May 2009 as part of Deaf Australia NSW’s Deaf Festival. Over 250 members of the Deaf Community and their families came together to celebrate at Parramatta Park. Ten stall holders took the opportunity to promote their services to Deaf people, including NRS, Ephpheta Centre and the Auslan Bookshop. Children were kept busy with “Kid’s Circus”, face painting and a sausage sizzle.

Crossing Borders Camp – Building Support and Self-Esteem for Deaf TeensThis year’s major initiative in helping to build the self-awareness and self-esteem for Deaf teens was the Crossing Borders Youth Camp held

from 12 to 16 January 2009 at Camp Long Beach, near Bateman’s Bay, NSW. A total of 55 young Deaf people, aged between 12 and 17 from NSW, Victoria and the ACT attended, along with 10 leaders and 3 volunteer Auslan interpreters. The Crossing Borders Youth Camp, a joint initiative between the Deaf Society of NSW and Deaf Children Australia, gave young Deaf people the opportunity to expand their social networks and build a sense of identity in a safe environment.Financial contributions and donations assist us with the success of our Deaf-Friendly Families program, including the Parent to Parent Mentoring Project and the Crossing Borders Camp. We would like to place on record our sincere appreciation to our supporters.

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These offices, together with those at Niagara Park, Newcastle, Lismore and Coffs Harbour, offer part-time support to Deaf people living in these regional areas. Clients are helped to access existing services in their local areas as well as being provided with Deaf-specialist support where necessary. In addition to formal service provision, during the year a number of community consultations and social events were held throughout NSW regional areas.

Deaf people living in regional and rural areas face increased access and equity challenges in accessing generic community services as well as a lack of Deaf-specific services to cater for their needs. The 2007-2010 Strategic Plan highlighted the need for increased services for Deaf people and their families living in regional NSW. In July 2008 additional offices were established in Albion Park Rail and Tamworth (servicing the Illawarra and Northern Tablelands respectively).

These events provided the opportunity for informal information sharing, support and networking.

Methods of improving regional service provision are being reviewed and plans are underway for all regional staff to receive training in delivering deafness awareness training in their local areas. We believe that this will assist local service providers in developing Deaf-friendly skills. We will also continue to investigate utilising technology to increase our scope of services in regional areas.

Regional Services

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Mission

To ensure Deaf people receive the same opportunities and have equal access to services and activities as do other members of the community.

To ensure services across New South Wales are available and accessible to Deaf people and reduce the isolation of Deaf Communities and individuals living in regional and remote areas.

Who We Are

The Client and Community Services team consists of the Manager – Client and Community Services, a Metro and a Regional Co-ordinator, three full-time community workers, four part-time community access workers, and 5 part-time regional workers.

What We Do

Provide a “Drop In” service at ten locations • throughout NSW, offering either direct face-to-face assistance or access via technology, by professional staff fl uent in Auslan. (Please refer to page ?? for locations).

Provide Deaf people and their families with • information and support to enable them to participate in and access services.

Develop partnerships and provide specialist • advice to other agencies and organisations to improve their service delivery and understanding of deafness related issues.

Provide extensive casework support to • members of the Deaf Community on an individual or family basis as required.

Provide support and training on a one-• to-one basis to assist Deaf people with disabilities or who require extra assistance to live as independently as possible.

Highlights During 2008/2009

Deaf Youth Camp ‘Crossing Borders’ • provided 32 young Deaf people with the opportunity to attend the camp.

Increased in delivery of outreach services to • Dubbo, Wagga Wagga and Griffi th – these communities showing signifi cant growth.

Continued with the working relationship with • an accommodation organisation, supporting two Deaf clients at their housing complex.

Key Infl uences and Challenges for 2009/2010

The growing needs of the Deaf Community 1. in regional areas.

Limited availability of important information 2. on health, safety and community issues in a format accessible by Deaf people.

Challenges involved in managing and 3. monitoring service delivery staff across a range of service provision areas, including regional staff.

Key Strategies 2008/2009

Utilise the updated website to provide 1. information about generic services in Auslan.

Seek funding to establish an additional 2. regional offi ce to service the Rivernia area as well as expanding the methods for Deaf people to utilise technology to reduce their isolation.

Develop improved strategies to support 3. for service delivery staff, particularly lone workers in regional areas.

Client and Community Services

Statistical and Financial Information

Support to clients 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 2005/06 2004/05

Offi ce visits by clients 2,964 2,227 1,442 1,327 1,433

Home visits to clients 1,170 1,559 1,250 1,164 1,269

Outside visits (eg hospitals, community centres)

936 1,123 1,031 978 1,075

Telephone/TTY/email/fax 13,884 10,360 11,676 9,630 10,234

Total 18,954 15,269 14,368 13,099 14,011

Visits to regional areas 32 32 28 24 21

Income $919,160 $912,980 $935,890 $769,669 $1,010,871

Expenditure $1,457,617 $1,364,189 $1,31,900 $976,367 $1,129,115

Surplus/(Defi cit) $(538,457) $(450,764) $(434,281) $(168,520) $(118,244)This year the Community Services and Independent Living Skills areas have been consolidated into a single Client and Community Services Department. Statistical information for the past fi ve years has been combined to refl ect this amalgamation of services.Government support totaling $ , was received from the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care to assist with the operation of client and community services. The NSW Department of Community Services provided funding of $95,900 towards support of children, youth and families. Additional small grants, as listed on page , helped towards the expense of a number of special projects during the year.32

621 399

Mission

To ensure Deaf people receive the same opportunities and have equal access to services and activities as do other members of the community.

To ensure services across New South Wales are available and accessible to Deaf people and reduce the isolation of Deaf Communities and individuals living in regional and remote areas.

Who We Are

The Client and Community Services team consists of the Manager – Client and Community Services, a Metro and a Regional Co-ordinator, three full-time community workers, four part-time community access workers, and four part-time regional workers.

What We Do

Provide a “Drop In” service at seven •locations throughout NSW, offering either direct face-to-face assistance or access via technology, by professional staff fluent in Auslan. (Please refer to OBC for locations).

Provide Deaf people and their families with •information and support to enable them to participate in and access services.

Develop partnerships and provide specialist •advice to other agencies and organisations to improve their service delivery and understanding of deafness related issues.

Provide extensive casework support to •members of the Deaf Community on an individual or family basis as required.

Provide support and training on a one-•to-one basis to assist Deaf people with disabilities or who require extra assistance to live independently.


Deaf Youth Camp ‘Crossing Borders’ •provided 32 young Deaf people with the opportunity to attend the camp.

Increased delivery of outreach services to •Dubbo, Wagga Wagga and Griffith – these communities showing significant growth.

Continued the working relationship with an •accommodation organisation, supporting two Deaf clients at their housing complex.


Key Influences and Challenges for 2009/2010

The growing needs of the Deaf Community 1. in regional areas.

Limited availability of important information 2. on health, safety and community issues in a format accessible by Deaf people.

Challenges involved in managing and 3. monitoring service delivery staff across a range of service provision areas, including regional staff.


Utilise the updated website to provide 1. information about generic services in Auslan.

Seek funding to establish an additional 2. regional office to service the Riverina area as well as expanding the methods for Deaf people to utilise technology to reduce their isolation.

Develop improved strategies to support 3. service delivery staff, particularly lone workers in regional areas.

The Client and Community Services team.

Healthy Lifestyle workshops – encouraging clients to improve their nutrition.

12

Mission Statement To provide high-quality Auslan/English •interpreting services to the Deaf Community of NSW and ensure services are accessible to Deaf people.

To work with government agencies, other •service providers, families and the Deaf Community to promote Auslan and Deaf culture and advocate for change at a systems level.

Who We AreOur team comprises the Manager - Interpreting and Advocacy (currently acting Senior Manager, Services) a full-time Co-ordinator, a Senior Interpreting Service Officer and two Interpreter, Service Officers. The John Ferris Interpreting Internship Program continued during the period, with two mentors appointed to work with four interns during the period. We also administer a register of casual interpreters throughout NSW of which 69 interpreters are active in metropolitan Sydney, 31 in regional areas of NSW and 16 Sydney-based relay interpreters as well as a register of 6 interpreters based in the ACT. The service has recently established a Note Taking Service and has built up a register of 16 note takers.

What We DoProvide a responsive Auslan/English •interpreting service to the Deaf Community throughout NSW.

Provide a Note Taking Service.•

Provide a Translation Service for •organisations that wish to make their information more accessible in video format.

Liaise with external interpreting agencies •promoting high quality services in the field.

Advocate, inform and educate service •providers on their responsibilities to provide access for Deaf people.

A• dvocate for change at a systems level through either direct lobbying or on behalf of individual Deaf people or the Deaf Community as a whole.

Highlights During 2008/2009Collaborated with interstate Deaf S• ocieties to establish Sign Language Communications – a national alliance of Australia’s most experienced providers of Auslan/English interpreting services.

Established a Translation Service, which •enables English resources to be translated into Auslan - launched with Auslan information on the website of the NSW Office of Industrial Relations on 30 June 2009.

Increased professional development •opportunities for interpreters, including the continuation of the John Ferris Interpreter Internship Program as well as a sponsorship program which helped prepare six Paraprofessional interpreters to sit their Professional Level tests with NAATI.


Increased agency competition in the inter-1. preting field.

Poor community awareness, particularly by 2. service providers, about the requirement under legislation to provide access to interpreting services for Deaf people.

Lack of ongoing funding for interpreting for 3. life important situations, particularly private legal and civil law matters.


Launch SLC as a national brand and seek 1. avenues for national tendering opportunities with a view to increasing market share.

Interpreting and Advocacy

Continue to promote awareness to service 2. providers regarding their responsibilities to provide Auslan interpreters and promote awareness to members of the Deaf community about their rights to interpreter provision.

Increase lobbying efforts for access to 3. funded interpreting services, particularly in regard to private legal and financial appointments.

Mission Statement

To provide high-quality Auslan/English • interpreting services to the Deaf Community of NSW and ensure services are accessible to Deaf people.

To work with government agencies, other • service providers, families and the Deaf Community to promote Auslan and Deaf culture and advocate for change at a systems level.

Who We Are

Our team comprises the Manager - Interpreting and Advocacy (currently acting Senior Manager, Services) a full-time Co-ordinator, a Senior Interpreting Service Offi cer and two Interpreter Service Offi cers. The John Ferris Interpreting Internship Program continued during the period, with two mentors appointed to work with four interns during the period. We also administer a register of casual interpreters throughout NSW of which 69 interpreters are active in metropolitan Sydney, 31 in regional areas of NSW and 16 Sydney-based relay interpreters as well as a register of 6 interpreters based in the ACT. The service has recently established a Note Taking Service and has built up a register of 16 note takers.

What We Do

Provide a responsive Auslan/English • interpreting service to the Deaf Community throughout NSW.

Provide a Notetaking Service.•

Provide a Translation Service for • organisations that wish to make their information more accessible in video format.

Liaise with external interpreting agencies • promoting high quality services in the fi eld.

Advocate, inform and educate service • providers on their responsibilities to provide

access for Deaf people.

Advocate for change at a systems level • through either direct lobbying or on behalf of individual Deaf people or the Deaf Community as a whole.


Collaborated with interstate Deaf • Societies to establish Sign Language Communications – a national alliance of Australia’s most experienced providers of Auslan/English interpreting services.

Established a Translation Service, which • enables English resources to be translated into Auslan - launched with Auslan information on the website of the NSW Offi ce of Industrial Relations on 30 June 2009.

Increased professional development • opportunities for interpreters, including the continuation of the John Ferris Interpreter Internship Program as well as a sponsorship program which helped prepare six Paraprofessional interpreters to sit their Professional Level tests with NAATI.

Key Infl uences and Challenges for 2009/2010

Increased agency competition in the 1. interpreting fi eld.

Poor community awareness, particularly by 2. service providers, about the requirement under legislation to provide access to interpreting services for Deaf people.

Lack of ongoing funding for interpreting for 3. life important situations, particularly private legal and civil law matters.


Continue to promote SLC as a national 1. brand and seek avenues for national tendering opportunities with a view to increasing market share.

Continue to promote awareness to service 2. providers regarding their responsibilities to provide Auslan interpreters and promote awareness to members of the Deaf community about their rights to interpreter provision.

Increase lobbying efforts for access to 3. funded interpreting services, particularly in regard to private legal and fi nancial appointments.


Interpreting assignments during the year 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 2005/06 2004/05 2003/04

Fee for service 4,316 3,937 3,598 2,351 2,596 2,255

No fee 140 136 113 114 203 156

Total 4,456 4,073 3,711 2,465 2,799 2,411

Income $821,917 $789,049 $748,166 $506,878 $438,834 $338,684

Expenditure $810,134 $709,783 $581,076 $449,486 $395,478 $405,770

Surplus/(Defi cit) $11,783 $79,266 $167,090 $57,392 $43,356 $(67,086)Funding from the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care totalling $82,029 assisted with the provision of this program.


The Hon. John Hatzistergos, Minister for Industrial Relations, launched “Auslan Info Bytes” at NSW Parliament House on 30 June 2009. The Department of Industrial Relations is to be congratulated for making their website accessible for Deaf people who use Auslan.

The Iterpreting and Advocacy Team.

13

Mission Statement

To provide community and vocational •educational opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing people.

To conduct training courses to enhance •the language skills of people who wish to improve their communication skills with Deaf people or work within the Deaf Community.

To increase the awareness of Deaf culture •and language within the wider community.

Who We Are

DEN, the education division of the Deaf Society, is administered by the Manager – Deaf Education Network. The team includes four full-time and three part-time Program Supervisors and support staff. Training and educational workshops are facilitated by a number of sessional and casual educators.

What We Do

Provide education and training in the •following areas:

Community education and lifestyle courses •for Deaf students (money management, health and wellness awareness, etc).

Accredited courses (vocational and literacy •programs) for Deaf students (computer skills, literacy and numeracy).

Auslan courses (accredited and community •programs) for hearing students (Certificate II in Auslan through to Diploma of Auslan; Community Sign Language Programs).

Deafness Awareness Training (improving •awareness about deafness and hearing impairment by employers, government agencies, school students; teaching practical strategies to facilitate communication).


Successfully launched our “Going to Court” 1. legal information DVD in Auslan, complete with a glossary of legal terms.

Launched the “Deaf Professionals Network” 2. held on a bi-monthly basis.

Established a catalogued library of 3. resources with up to date articles, DVDs, books etc.


Changes to government policy in relation to 1. the Strategic Skills Program has resulted in

a reduction in funding for Auslan courses for the coming calendar year.

Limited ability to offer educational 2. workshops in regional areas.

Shortage of training facilities to 3. accommodate additional classes.


Lobby to have Auslan interpreting identified 1. as a national skills shortage area thereby

enabling access to government funding opportunities.

Train all regional staff in deafness awareness 2. training and assist in tailoring workshops for organisations in these regions.

Ensure new Deaf Society premises 3. allows additional space to be utilised for classrooms and training areas.

Education and Training


2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 2005/06 2004/05

DAT Workshops 28 37 71 93 82

Community Lifestyle Programs 16 15 12 15 14

Accredited courses for Deaf people 9 10 13 - -

Accredited courses for hearing people 3 4 4 - -

Community Auslan Courses 52 53 44 - -

Heritage School 1 1 2 2 2

Total Courses 109 120 146 110 98

“Hands On News” published 4 4 4 4 4

“Auslan Student Newsletter” published 6 6 8 - -

Income $746,871 $802,216 $444,601 $87,692 $83,149

Expenditure $737,195 $802,216 $437,635 $97,000 $91,304

Surplus/(Deficit) $9,676 - $6,966 $(9,308) $(8,155)Income totaling $401,787 was received from the NSW Department of Education and Training to assist with the operation of education programs, with an additional $75,911 being received from the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care to assist with the costs incurred by the Community Lifestyle Programs.

DEN offers both certificate and community courses for Deaf and hearing students.

DEN graduates were entertained with a Auslan signed rendition of the song “Waiting for the World to Change”.

The Education and Training Team.

14

Mission Statement

To assist Deaf and hard of hearing clients to access and maintain suitable employment and participate in vocational training opportunities.

Who We Are

Our team comprises the Manager - Employment and Workplace Support who supervises an Employment Co-ordinator and four Employment Officers.

What We Do

Deliver two Disability Employment Programs •(capped and uncapped) funded by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) which offer a holistic range of assistance solutions for the barriers to employment faced by Deaf and hard of hearing clients.

Provide pre-employment support •including skills assessment, career plan development, personal and employment skills development, job seeking assistance, liaison with prospective employers, Auslan interpreting at job interviews and access to a wide referral and service network.

Offer post-employment support including •induction support, Auslan interpreting, deafness awareness training for employers

and colleagues, access to Auslan for Employment and Workplace Modification as well as other employer incentives.


Assisted 120 Deaf or hard of hearing •clients – and placed 38 clients into paid employment.

Successfully obtained Quality Assurance re-•certification for all 12 Disability Standards.

Obtained an extension of our current •funding, as well as an Invitation to Treat for additional services from 2010.


Implementation and delivery of services will 1. need to be amended according to the new system of Disability Employment under Jobs Australia.

Increased competition for funding due to the 2. uncapping of services.

The rise in the unemployment rate makes it 3. increasingly difficult to obtain and negotiate employment opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing clients.


Provide necessary in-house staff training 1. and support to develop expertise in the new system and excel in compliance with Departmental expectations and contractual obligations.

Invest in new marketing strategies to 2. expand the profile and exposure of our specialist Employment Service.

Maintain high utilisation of complementary 3. programs to provide specific and greater opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing clients to enter or go back into the workforce.

Employment and Workplace Support


2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 2005/06 2004/05

Clients assisted to obtain employment 38 35 28 20 20

Total Clients Serviced 120 100 50 34 45

Income $529,724 $463,794 $254,606 $144,919 $133,366

Expenditure $484,955 $372,950 $254,606 $164,017 $151,920

Surplus/(Deficit) $44,769 $90,844 - $(19,098) $(18,554)

Funding totaling $529,724 was received from the Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations to provide this program.On-site post-placement support is offered to all clients.

Job Skills Workshops assist with developing interview skills and building confidence.

The Employment and Workplace Support Team.

15

Organisational Chart from 1 July 2009

Board of Directors


Director of Services



Education and Training


Director of Operations

Administration and Finance

Human Resources and Quality Assurance

Marketing and Development

NRS Outreach Service

Finance and Administration Department

The Finance and Administration team comprises a Manager who supervises two information officers, an enrolments officer and two full-time and one part-time accounts staff. Over the last twelve months there have been a number of changes to the management of the department. Despite these changes, the department has continued to maintain its excellent service standards.

The Finance and Administration Team continue to maintain the highest work standards and assist the other departments achieve their ambitions and goals through the delivery of fast and efficient service. As the Deaf Society grows its services and scope, the team strives to meet the increasing demands placed upon it by maintaining flexibilty and developing new and streamlined processes to meet the challenges head on.

Our guidelines and procedures are constantly reviewed to ensure that we are maintaining “Best Business Practice” and keeping pace with similar institutions. With the DEN merge well behind us we have emerged as a highly talented and co-operative team.

The accounts area is currently under review with the emphasis on streamlining our chart of accounts to provide improved management information. The new structure, which is yet to be finalised, will enhance the existing services and provide the support necessary to provide a high level service standard to internal and external clients.

We look forward to a permanent appointment to the position of Manager who will provide leadership and direction to complete this review as well as finalise updated procedural documentation.

The Finance and Administration Team.

Team Yellow - victors of the Deaf Society Staff Survivor team building day.

16

Employment Practices

The Deaf Society of NSW is a bi-lingual workplace where both Auslan and English are used. All employees are required to have, or are encouraged to develop, Auslan skills as well as knowledge of Deaf culture and the Deaf Community. Auslan interpreters are always provided for both internal and external meetings and training courses. As an equal opportunity employer we are proud that Deaf people are employed at all levels in our organisation. Deaf people are encouraged to apply for vacancies and some positions are targeted to the Deaf Community as part of our affirmative action policy. There are currently 19 Deaf staff employed in a variety of roles. The Deaf Society has also implemented a number of technological modifications to our workplace including special telephones and accessories and flashing light visual alarms. Our Deaf-friendly work practices saw us honoured this year when we received the Australian Sign Language Interpreters Association (NSW) Award for Employer of the Year.

The Deaf Society remains committed to recruiting and retaining the best possible candidates for employment vacancies. We want to continue to improve our employment practices to ensure we attract and retain staff. We also want to continue to remain an employer of choice within the Deaf sector. Our employment policies such as Deaf-friendly and Family-friendly practices help us to support staff. As a Public Benevolent Institution, the Deaf Society is able to offer salary packaging to all permanent staff. A review of our method of salary packaging during the year resulted in the appointment of Selectus as our external provider from 1 July 2009.

The Deaf Society contributed 9% of salary for all full-time and eligible part-time staff under the Superannuation Guarantee Levy. The

majority of these contributions were paid into the Health Employees Superannuation Trust Australia (HESTA) however employees are able to nominate a preferred Fund. Employees are also supported to make additional personal contributions.

Staff Training and Development

The Deaf Society is fortunate to have a dedicated team of highly trained professional staff. Employees are encouraged to identify training and development opportunities which will enhance their skills and improve specialist knowledge in key areas such as mental health, child and family support, legal and advocacy. During the year staff attended a number of external training opportunities including accounting and financial skills, risk management and occupational health and safety, advocacy skills and strategies, legal and ethical issues and therapeutic counselling. We also held in-house training and staff were sponsored to attend specialised conferences. Employees are also supported to undertake external tertiary education in order to gain formal qualifications.

Staff Safety and Support

The Deaf Society of NSW has a strong commitment to occupational health and safety.

OHS audits are conducted on a monthly basis with bi-annual Hazpac reviews. Policies addressing risk areas are reviewed and amended as necessary. The Deaf Society is very much aware of the importance of life/work balance. In order to ensure our staff remain fresh, focused and productive, staff workloads are constantly reviewed to ensure we do not create an organisational culture where long working hours are expected from staff.

In 2008/2009 there were two injuries which resulted in one or more days of absence. Both these claims relate to occupational overuse syndrome, a common complaint suffered by Auslan interpreters. All Deaf Society vehicles are equipped with ABS brakes, cruise control and airbags and policies are in place to cover safety issues dealing with the provision of outreach services such as long distance travel and fatigue management.

We reviewed our current Employee Assistance Program during the year and appointed a new provider, Rehab Management, in February 2009. The EAP is available for staff who may wish to talk confidentially with a professional counsellor about areas of concern, including critical incidents in the workplace.

Next year we plan to investigate new methods of providing external mentoring and

professional networking opportunities as well as the evaluation and improvement of our internal Personal Development Program.

Industrial and Employment Relations

The Social and Community Services Employees (State) Award covers all Community Workers and Community Access Workers. Clerical staff are covered by the Clerical and Administrative Employees (State) Award and the Employment Officers are employed under the Community Employment, Training and Support Services Award. Staff involved in the supervision and delivery of education and training courses are employed under the St George and Sutherland Community College Administrative Staff & Site Co-Ordinators’ Certified Agreement 2005. Employees who are not covered by awards have their conditions of employment agreed to by contracts of employment. Industrial and employee relations continued to be harmonious, with no days lost to industrial disputes.

VolunteersWe are fortunate to enjoy the support of volunteers who contribute their time, energy and expertise to our cause. Professional management and strategic direction is provided by our voluntary Board of Directors. Anthony

Human Resources

The dedication demonstrated by Deaf Society staff is the key to our success.

17

Houen, AM, Patterson, Houen and Commins, has been involved with the Deaf Society for fifty years. Tony continues to provide expert advice on a number of complex legal matters on a pro-bono basis. Susan Hill and Amanda Dunford continue to provide clerical assistance at the Parramatta and Newcastle offices. Deaf people participated as volunteers in many community activities and events, including the Auslan Heritage School and DEN Auslan acquisition courses as well as acting as sighted guides for Deafblind outings.

Our StaffOne of the most important components in achieving the goals of the Deaf Society is the talent and commitment of our people. We want to ensure that the Deaf Society continues our affirmative action strategies which create opportunities for Deaf people with the appropriate skills and experience to join our team. The dedication of our staff continues to be the key to our success in achieving our mission. We would like to place on record our sincere appreciation for the assistance given by all our dedicated staff and volunteers whose assistance is vital to our work.

Staff Members during the Year

Qualifications and Additional Contributions during the yearRichard Aarden - Promotions and Information Advisor

Diploma of Performing Arts (Theatre), Diploma of Acting, Cert III in AuslanMember - DSNSW

Craig Bishop - NSW Regional Services Co-ordinator

NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English)Member - ASLIAQMember - ASLIA (NSW)Member - DeafACTion Tamworth

Sandra Campbell - Employment Officer*

General Construction OHS Induction Certificate

Jennifer Clements - Information Officer

Cert III Auslan, Senior First Aid CertificateMember - DSNSW

Lise Clews - Casual Accounts Assistant*

Cert III in Financial Services

Tony Clews - Program Supervisor - Community Lifestyle Courses*

Cert IV Auslan TeachingRegistered Tax Help VolunteerDeaf Cricket NSW - Life memberSignpost - Deaf TV committee

Margaret Craig - Community Access Worker*

Cert IV Auslan Teaching, Cert IV Assessment & Workplace Training

David Cunneen - Manager - Administration & Human Resources

Bachelor of Social Science, Diploma of HR, Cert IV Workplace Training & Assessment

Veronica De Ferrari - Manager - Employment and Workplace Support

BA Psychobiology, BA (Adult) Education, MA (Adult) Education, Cert IV Frontline Management, Cert IV Workplace LeadershipMember - Australian Human Resource Institute

Thuy Van Do - Community Access Worker*

Cert IV Frontline Management, Senior First Aid CertificateDeafblind Relay InterpreterDAT Trainer

Susan Drane - Employment Officer

Associate Diploma Recreation, Basic Supervision Cert, BA (Leisure Studies), Cert IV Workplace Training and Assessment, Cert IV OHS

Sharon Everson - Chief Executive Officer

Justice of the Peace, Diploma in Community Management, Cert IV Assessment & Workplace TrainingMember - Australian Association of Company DirectorsMember - Australian Institute of ManagementMember - Chartered Secretaries Australia

Bettina Girdler - Interpreting Service Officer

Cert I, II, III in Auslan

Nicole Gray - Information Officer

NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English)Member - DSNSWMember - ASLIA (NSW)

Julia Griffiths - Community Worker*

Cert II in Business Management, Statement of Attainment in Assessment & Workplace Training, Certificate of Support Teaching (Auslan)Auslan Tutor - Community CollegeSecretary - DeafACTion

Bader Haouam - Community Worker*

Brendan Harding - Interpreting Service Officer

Cert II, III and IV Auslan, Diploma of Auslan, NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English)Member - ASLIA (NSW)Member - DSNSW

Karen Jahn - Enrolments Officer*

Cert Auslan Teaching, Cert IV Assessment & Workplace TrainingAuslan Teacher - DENMember - DSNSW

Patricia Knight - Community Access Worker*

Cert IV in Assessment & Workplace TrainingLife member - Deaf Tennis NSW

Natalie Kull - John Ferris Interpreter Internship Program Intern

Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE), Cert IV Training & Assessment, BA (English Literature & Cultural Studies), NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Cert II, III and IV in AuslanMember - DSNSW Member - ASLIA (NSW) Member - ATODAuslan Teacher - DEN

Rebecca Ladd - Executive Director - Services

Justice of the Peace, Master of Management (Comm Man), BEd (Hons), Cert IV Training & Assessment, NAATI Professional Interpreter (Auslan/English),Member - ASLIA (NSW)

Katrina Lancaster - Community Worker*

Bachelor of Community Welfare (International Social Development), Cert IV Community Services (Welfare), Cert IV Assessment & Workplace TrainingBoard Member - Deaf AustraliaSessional Teacher - DEN

Debra Lawes - Accounts Clerk

Justice of the Peace

Annette Lüders - Manager - Administration and Human Resources

Cert II and III in AuslanMember - ASLIA (NSW)Member - DSNSWMember - Chartered Secretaries AustraliaMember - Australian Human Resources Institute

Susannah Macready - Program Supervisor - Literacy and Projects

Cert II and III in Auslan, Cert IV Training and Assessment, Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE), NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Graduate Dip of Education, BA (Hons I), PhDCommittee member - ASLIA (NSW)ASLIA (NSW) Representative to ASLIA National

Justine Maggs - Community Worker

Cert II, III and IV in Auslan

Melissa Mahony - Community Worker*

Bachelor Legal & Justice Studies

Eleanor Maxwell - John Ferris Interpreter Internship Program Intern

NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Diploma of Auslan/English Interpreting, Auslan Bridging Course, Cert II and III in AuslanMember - ASLIA (NSW)

Daniela Mitchell - Community Access Worker*

Cert IV in AuslanSessional Teacher - DEN

David McQuiggin - Co-ordinator - Employment and Workplace Support

Cert II, III & IV in Auslan, Diploma of Auslan, NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Cert IV Assessment & Workplace TrainingSessional Teacher - DENMember - ASLIA (NSW)

Sharon Nann - Director of Services

Bachelor of Education (Adult Ed), Cert IV Training & Assessment, NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English)Member - DSNSW

Anna Nardi - Program Supervisor, Accredited Auslan Courses

Cert II, III & IV in Auslan, Diploma of Auslan, Cert IV Training & AssessmentAssociate Member - ASLIA (NSW)Sessional Teacher - DEN

Kate Nelson - Program Officer/Project Co-ordinator*

Bachelor of Arts, Graduate Diploma Rehabilitation Counselling, Masters in Theatre Studies, Cert IV Training & AssessmentSessional Teacher - DENBoard Member - DA(NSW)

Stephen Nicholson - Manager - Client and Community Services*

Bachelor of Education (Adult Ed), Cert IV Training & Assessment, Cert IV Frontline ManagementMember - ASLIA (NSW)Sessional Teacher - DEN and TAFEMember - DSNSW Member - ACEDeafblind Relay Interpreter

ASLIA(NSW) – Australian Sign Language Interpreters Association NSWDA(NSW) – Deaf Australia NSW DSNSW – Deaf Society of NSWATOD – Australian Theatre of the DeafNAATI – National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters

18

Paul Nordheim - Community Worker*

Diploma in Advanced Business Studies

Bridget Nunan - Program Supervisor*

Bachelor of Science in Computing & Information Systems, Cert IV in Training & AssessmentSessional Teacher - DEN and TAFEMember - DA(NSW)

Alex Nyam - IT Support Officer*

Cert IV Website Production, Cert IV IT System Admin, Cert IV Website Management, Cert IV Digital Media, Diploma Arch Technology, Mech Engineer

John O’Neill - Manager - Education and Training

Diploma in Human Resource Management, Cert IV Training & Assessment, Cert I, II, III & IV in Auslan, Cert IV Supervisory Development/Management

David Parker - Relief Administration Manager*

BEng (Electrical), Comp Network Admin, Cert IV Assessment & Workplace TrainingMember DSNSW

Erin Pattison - Interpreting Services Clerk

Cert II and III in Auslan, Diploma of Auslan

Lizzi Price - Community Worker

Bachelor of Science, Graduate Diploma of Arts (Psych), Cert II, III and IV in Auslan, Diploma of Auslan,Convenor of the LGBTQ network -Amnesty International Australia

Terri Richardson - Community Worker Coffs Coast

Cert I and II in Auslan, Cert IV Workplace Training & Assessment

Dalia Rogers - Interpreting Service Officer

Diploma of Interpreting (Auslan/English), NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter Auslan/English

Rebekah Rose-Mundy - Employment Officer*

Diploma of Auslan, Diploma in Management, Cert IV Training & Assessment, Cert IV in Auslan Teaching, Cert IV Teacher’s Assistant (Special), Statement of Attainment in Deafblind Relay Interpreting, Cert III Science Laboratory AssistantMember - ASLIA (NSW)Member - Deaf AustraliaMember - Deaf Children AustraliaDeaf Studies TeacherDeafblind Relay Interpreter

Jasmine Rozsa - Senior Interpreting Services Officer

NAATI Paraprofessional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Diploma of Interpreting Auslan/EnglishCommittee Member - ASLIA(NSW)

Jenny Rozsa - Metro Services Co-ordinator*

Daryl Seibright - Employment Officer

Cert II, III and IV Auslan, Diploma of Auslan, Diploma in Hospitality Management, Diploma of Emergency Medical Dispatch (Hons)Member - ASLIA (NSW)Member - DA(NSW)

Gerry Shearim - John Ferris Interpreter Internship Program Mentor

NAATI Professional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Diploma in Interpreting (Auslan/English), Cert IV Workplace Training & Assessment

Mary Srbic - Accountant

Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

Chevoy Sweeney - John Ferris Interpreter Internship Program Mentor

NAATI Professional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Post Graduate Diploma in Auslan/ English InterpretingCommittee Member ASLIA (NSW)Member - DA(NSW)

Judith Sweet - Accounts Co-ordinator

Teresa Thomson - Program Supervisor

Cert I in Auslan

Sheena Walters - Senior Manager, Services; Manager - Interpreting and Advocacy

NAATI Professional Interpreter (Auslan/English)Member - DSNSWPresident - ASLIA (NSW)Tax Help Accrediation

Linda Warby - Project Officer*

Bachelor of Education (Adult Basic ED/TESOL), Grad Dip (Adult Basic Ed)

Sara Willyan-Payne - Community Worker

Associate Diploma Social Science, Cert II, III and IV in Auslan, Cert IV Disability Studies

Kathy Wright - Co-ordinator - Interpreting Service

NAATI Professional Interpreter Auslan/English, Cert IV Assessment & Workplace Training, Cert IV Frontline ManagementTreasurer - ASLIA (NSW)Member - DSNSWMember - DA(NSW)Life Member - Australian Theatre of the Deaf

Susan Wright - Project Officer*

Cert I Clerical Skills

* Denotes Deaf staff member

National Relay Service – Outreach Service

The National Relay Service is an Australia-wide telephone access service provided for people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. It is also available to anyone who wants to call a person with such an impairment. Calls can be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week using the relay call options such as internet relay, speak and read, type and read, type and listen and speak.

WestWood Spice, a specialist consulting group with expertise in the community and human services sectors, has worked in partnership with the Australian Federation of Deaf Societies since 2006 to deliver the NRS - Outreach Service, which aims to raise awareness of the relay service and provide training and support to users and potential users.

The NRS - Outreach Service includes a telephone/TTY accessed helpdesk, a website, personalised training for potential users, community and professional outreach events, media advertising and printed, video and DVD resources. Sydney-based staff are employed under the auspices of the Deaf Society of NSW.

NRS – Outreach staff during the yearChristine Eagles – Education and Information Officer

New York State Teaching Assistant Certification, American Sign Language Educational Interpreter

Danielle Fried – Customer Service Co-ordinator

MA (Translation & Interpreting), Postgraduate Diploma (Auslan/English interpreting), BA (Government), NAATI Professional Interpreter (Auslan/English), Cert IV Assessment & Workplace TrainingMember - ASLIA (NSW)

Michelle Malouf – Education and Customer Service Support

Cert IV Community & Welfare Services, Cert II and III in Auslan

Andrew Mead – Promotions Officer

BA (Theatre), Certified rigger, forklift & scissor lift ticket

Michele Nealon – Manager, Education and Customer Service

Diploma in Music Teaching, Diploma in Church Music, Cert IV in Management (Team Leadership), Cert IV in Public Relations, Mental Health First Aid Certificate,Member - Australian Institute of Management

Kathleen Tan - Education and Customer Service Officer

Bachelor of Science (Hearing and Speech)

Leeanne Yap – Helpdesk Customer Service Officer

Advanced Certificate in Advertising, Certificate in Marketing

NRS - Outreach Service

19

TABLE 1 – 2008/2009 ANALYSIS OF OPERATING INCOME BY SOURCE AND COST CENTRE

INCOME TOTAL C’WEALTH NSW STATESUNDRY GRANTS

FEES FOR SERVICE

FUNDRAISING

INVESTMENTS SUNDRY

Body Corporate 1,125,290 - - - 71,292 - 1,050,543 3,455

Fundraising 37,897 - - - - 37,897 - -

Client and Community Services 919,160 - 743,195 41,797 133,538 - - 630

Interpreting and Advocacy 821,917 - 82,029 - 739,888 - - -

Deaf Education Network 746,871 - 477,698 - 237,544 - 31,276 353

Employment and Workplace Support 529,724 529,724 - - - - - -

National Relay Service - Outreach 416,727 - - - 416,727 - - -

Total 4,597,586 529,724 1,302,922 41,797 1,598,989 37,897 1,081,819 4,438

Percentage 100 11.5 28 1 34.5 1 23.5 0.5

TABLE 2 – FINANCIAL SUMMARY FOR THE LAST FIVE YEARS

INCOME

$ % $ % $ % $ % $ %

2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 2005/06 2004/05

Corporate Services 1,125,290 24.5 2,219,618 39 1,429,384 34 761,861 31 817,661 30

Fundraising 37,897 1 37,594 0.5 42,300 1 40,671 2 43,718 2

Client and Community Services 919,160 20 912,980 16 935,890 22 870,677 35 1,245,413 47

Interpreting and Advocacy 821,917 17.5 789,049 14 748,166 18 506,878 21 364,854 13

Deaf Education Network 746,871 16 802,216 14.5 444,601 10.5 87,692 4 83,149 3

Employment & Workplace Support 529,724 11.5 463,794 8 254,606 6 144,919 6 133,366 5

National Relay Service - Outreach 416,727 9 461,110 8 344,665 9 15,540 1 - -

Sub total 4,597,586 100 5,686,361 100 4,199,612 100 2,428,238 100 2,688,161 100

Operating Surplus 350,553 1,710,164 992,804 250,664 523,714

Total 4,247,033 3,976,197 3,206,808 2,177,574 2,164,447

EXPENDITURE 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 2005/06 2004/05

Corporate Services 326,039 7.5 253,806 6.5 205,223 7 255,809 12 168,686 8

Fundraising 14,366 0.5 12,593 0.5 13,432 0.5 16,292 1 14,579 0.5

Client and Community Services 1,457,617 34 1,363,739 34 1,370,171 42 1,176,319 53 1,342,480 62

Interpreting and Advocacy 810,134 19 709,783 18 581,076 18 449,486 0.5 395,478 18

Deaf Education Network 737,195 18 802,216 20 437,635 3.5 97,000 5 91,304 4

Employment & Workplace Support 484,955 11 372,950 9 254,606 8 164,017 8 151,920 7

National Relay Service Outreach 416,727 10 461,110 1.5 344,665 11 18,651 1 - -

Total 4,247,033 100 3,976,197 100 3,206,808 100 2,177,574 100 2,164,447 100

Comm Govt

State Govt

GrantsFees for Service

Fundraising

Investments

Sundries

TABLE A - EMPLOYEE INFORMATION SUMMARY2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 2005/06 2004/05

Full- ime

Part-time

Full- time

Part-time

Full- time

Part-time

Full- time

Part-time

Full- time

Part-time

Executive 1 - 2 - 2 - 2 - 2 -

Administration, Marketing, Quality Assurance

4 3 6 3 6 3 3 2 3 1

Client and Community Services 6 9 7 5 7 5 8 4 8 5

Interpreting and Advocacy 5 1 4 4 3 5 2 3 2 1

Education and Training 3 4 4 2 1 8 - 1 1


5 1 5 1 4 0 2 1 2 3

NRS - Outreach 4 3 2 2 2 - - - - -

Total 28 21 30 17 25 21 17 11 17 11

Salaries and Wages $2,869,860 $2,702,165 $2,033,862 $1,325,872 $1,478,579

Workers’ Compensation $78,057 $84,874 $96,936 $80,417 $46,410

Superannuation $260,331 $244,180 $192,441 $132,565 $123,067

Total $3,208,248 $3,031,219 $2,323,239 $1,538,854 $1,648,056

Total Expenditure $4,247,033 $3,976,197 $3,211,924 $2,177,574 $2,164,447

Percentage of Total Expenditure 76% 76% 72% 70% 76%

Number of years service* 20 yrs + 15 yrs + 10 yrs + 5-9 yrs 2-4 yrs < 2 yr TotalCasual Staff

Casual Teachers

Casual Interpreters

*includes transfer of service from DEN 1 3 4 9 15 17 49 3 37 166

Financial Results 2008-2009NRS - Outreach Service

20

Overview

The 2008/2009 financial year proved to be particularly unfavourable for investors and the Deaf Society was not exempt from the impact of negative market conditions. However, I am pleased to report that

despite a turbulent and volatile year for global financial markets, the Deaf Society was able to declare an operating surplus of $350,553. The write down in the fair valuation on investments of $2,262,171, reflecting the actual market value of investments held as at 30 June 2009, resulted in a deficit of $1,808,005. The detailed balance sheet on page 23 reflects this write down with equity at 30 June 2009 totalling $12,967,052, being assets of $14,053,179 less $1,086,127 in liabilities.

Detailed information about the Society’s finances, a reporting requirement by the Australian Accounting Standards are contained in the financial statements out on pages 22 to 32. These reports are prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards and are the subject of an independent external audit by Benbow and Pike, Chartered Accountants. Financial operating procedures are also reviewed as part of the audit process and the Board is satisfied that internal control mechanisms and effective protection procedures are in place for optimal financial risk management.

The financial summaries on page 19 provide a financial analysis of our operating result for the year.

Investment Performance

The Deaf Society relies heavily on the income generated from our investments to help fund current services as well as finance future needs. During the year, $1,081,819 (23.5% of income) came from investments. While a reduction on the previous year, this was a positive return in what was a difficult year for investment markets.

The Board’s focus is on making prudent financial decisions to protect the investment capital. A decision was made in February 2009 that future investments would be placed in cash deposits with guaranteed returns and no risk of market value fluctuations while a review of our current investment strategies was undertaken. Following this review it was resolved to change our external investment advisors and appoint Strategic Capital Management to this role as from 1 July 2009.

How our services are funded - revenue by funding source

Our operating surplus totalled $350,405 for the year. This reduction on the previous year was due to the decrease in investment income. Growth in income from grants rose to $1,832,646 (39.5% of income) with an additional $41,797 (1% of income) being received from a number of small non-recurrent grants for specific projects. We would like to place on record our thanks to the various Commonwealth and State Government Departments who fund our work, including the Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations; the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care; NSW Department of Education and Training; NSW Board of Adult Education and Training and the NSW Department of Community Services. Our thanks are also extended to the Community

Relations Commission Language Services, the Commonwealth Department of Ageing and Health, the Law and Justice Foundation, Marrickville Council, Parramatta City Council, the New South Wales Department of Health and the NSW Department of Community Services Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme. The Society greatly appreciated their valuable assistance.

An increase in Auslan interpreting assignments and educational courses saw fee-for-service income rise to $1,598,989 (34.5% of income). Income from fundraising has remained at approximately 1% of income over the past five years and this year totalled $37,897 (1% of income). Our sincere appreciation is extended to all our supporters - individual donors and corporate sponsors, as well as members of women’s bowling clubs throughout the State, for their long-time financial support. I would also like to acknowledge the thoughtfulness and generosity of all those people who have named the Deaf Society as a beneficiary in their wills. This year we were fortunate to receive bequests totalling $103,613.

How we spend the money – expenditure by service area

Table 2 reflects the expenditure on our operations for the year. 34% of expenditure for client and community services, 19% for interpreting and advocacy services,18% for educational programs, 12% for employment and workplace support and 9% for the NRS outreach service.

A total of $3,906,628 (92% of total expenditure) was spent on service delivery, with $340,405 (8%) being expended on management of corporate services and fundraising.

Looking ahead

The Board of Directors understands that financial sustainability is crucial. The Deaf

Society has been able to build a solid financial base which allows us to maintain our current services as well as plan new initiatives. We will continue to monitor and review the performance of our investments to ensure maximum income and capital growth. This is essential for an organisation which relies heavily on its own income to provide services. Since the end of June investment markets have made a small recovery and we are confident that this is a positive sign for the future.

I would like to thank my colleagues on the Board for their careful financial stewardship and close monitoring of returns during these volatile economic times. I would also like to thank our management team and staff for their contributions in managing costs while focusing on excellent service provision for our consumers.

George M. Barbouttis, OAM, FCAHonorary Treasurer

31 July 2009

Honorary Treasurer’s Report

21

Your directors present their report of The Deaf Society of New South Wales for the financial year ended 30 June 2009

Directors

The names of the directors in office at any time during the year and to the date of this report are:

George Michael Barbouttis, Peter Owen Brownlee (resigned 29 November 2008), Breda Carty (elected 29 November 2008), Kenneth Deacon, Tiffany Fulde, Anthony Alan Gorringe, Jane Innes (resigned 27 October 2008), Nicolas Jarvis, Stephen Matchett (resigned 27 October 2008), Alastair McEwin (elected 29 November 2008), Stewart Anthony McClay (resigned 18 February 2009), Susanne Alexandra Rae and Glenn Welldon.

Company Secretary

Sharon Everson acted as company secretary throughout the year and held the position at the end of the year. Ms Everson has worked for The Deaf Society of New South Wales for the past 30 years in accounting and management roles. Ms Everson was appointed company secretary on 25 October 1999.

Principal Activities

The activity of the Society in the course of the financial year was the provision of services to Deaf people and training services for both Deaf and hearing students. There has been no significant change in the nature of this activity during the year.

Operating Result

The profit before significant items for the financial year was $350,553. The loss after significant items for the financial year was $1,808,005. The Society is exempt from income tax.

Review of Operations

During the year the Society continued to provide counselling and interpreting services, community development, education programs for both the Deaf and hearing communities and independent living skills training for Deaf people, as well as those who have a disability, and employment support programs.

Funding for all of the above activities came from appeals, donations, investment income, fees for services rendered, grants and subsidies from State and Commonwealth Governments.

As a Registered Training Organisation, the Society continued to offer training services to both Deaf and hearing students.

A significant impairment in the fair value of available for sale financial assets held at year end, as detailed in Note 3 to this report, resulted in a negative impact to the year’s result to the extent of $2,262,171.

Significant Changes in the State of Affairs

No significant change in the state of affairs of the Society occurred during the financial year.

After Balance Date Events

No matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affected or may significantly affect the operations of the Society, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the Society in financial years subsequent to the financial year ended 30 June. As from 1 July 2009, Ms Sharon Everson was appointed Chief Executive Officer.

Future Developments

The Society will continue to maintain current services and programs as part of its proposals for activities to be undertaken in 2009/2010 to

ensure that Deaf people achieve their full rights and fulfil their responsibilities as Australian citizens. The provision of these services will continue to rely on funding from the State and Commonwealth Governments, income from investments, fees for services rendered and income from donations, appeals and bequests.

The Society will continue to examine the use of its resources, through research and development, to ensure that it fulfils its commitment to the Deaf Community of NSW.

Environmental Regulations

The Society’s operations are not regulated by any significant environmental regulation under a law of the Commonwealth or of a State or Territory.

Directors’ Meetings

During the financial year, 11 meetings of directors were held. Attendances were:

Directors’ Report

Information on Directors

Director Qualifications and ExperienceGeorge Michael Barbouttis OAM F.C.A., F.C.P.A., Dip. Commerce

* Chartered Accountant* Member of the Board since November 1982* Honorary Treasurer

Breda Carty PhD, MA, Dip Ed, BA* Lecturer * Member of the Board since November 2008* Member, Deaf History International* Member, British Deaf History Society* Member, Australian Association of the Deaf* Member, Disability Council of NSW* Member, World Federation of the Deaf

Ken Deacon JP Grad Cert Management, Cert IV Auslan and Assess and Workplace Training

* Service Delivery Manager* Member of the Board since August 2006* Certified Mediator and Conciliator

Tiffany Fulde* Medical Student* Member of the Board since February 2008

Anthony Alan Gorringe JP NIA Assoc. Dip. Bus.* Finance Officer, Greater Western Area Health

Service* Member of the Board since November 2007* Elected Chairman of the Board November 2008* Chairman, Deaf Lawn Bowls NSW* Administrator, Deaf Lawn Bowls Australia* Vice President, International Deaf Lawn Bowls

Association

Nicolas Jarvis BA (Adelaide)* Public Relations Consultant* Member of the Board since October 2004

Alastair McEwin MBA BA B Laws * Solicitor* Director, Combined Community Legal Centres

Group* Member of the Board since November 2008* Board Member, Australian Theatre of the Deaf* Member, UNSW Disability Studies & Research

Centre Advisory Committee

Susanne Alexandra Rae MA (NY) DipEd, BA (Syd)* Educational Administrator* Member of the Board since November 2000

Glenn Andrew Welldon Cert IV Business Frontline, Management/Information, Technology/Workplace

* Information Resources Officer* Member of the Board since October 2007

Number eligible to

attend

Numberattended

George Michael Barbouttis

Peter Owen Brownlee

Breda Carty

Ken Deacon

Tiffany Fulde

Anthony Alan Gorringe

Jane Innes

Nicolas Jarvis

Stephen Matchett

Alastair McEwin

Stewart Anthony McClay

Susanne Alexandra RaeGlenn Andrew Welldon

1138

111111

211

285

1111

926

115

11272728

10

22

INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2009

Note2009

$

2008

$

Revenues 3 4,597,586 5,686,361

Less:

Employee benefits expense 3,208,316 3,031,214

Depreciation expense 105,016 76,414

Fundraising expense 2,217 4,117

Motor Vehicle expensesa 56,548 68,576

Rental expense 239,773 233,618

Travel expenses 92,516 104,010

Other expenses 542,647 458,248

Profit before significant items 350,553 1,710,164

Significant items 3 (2,158,558) (2,652,135)

Net profit/(loss) (1,808,005) (941,971)

Retained earnings at the beginning of the financial year 9,208,925 10,150,896

Retained earnings at the end of the financial year 7,400,920 9,208,925

Indemnifying Officers or Auditor

The Society has not, during or since the financial year, in respect of any person who is or has been an officer or auditor of the Society or a related body indemnified or made any relevant agreement for indemnifying against a liability incurred as an officer, including costs and expenses in successfully defending legal proceedings.

During or since the financial year the Society has paid premiums to insure each of the following persons against liabilities for costs and expenses incurred by them in defending any legal proceedings arising out of their conduct while acting in the capacity as an officer of the Society, other than conduct involving a wilful breach of duty in relation to the Society. The amount of the premium was $219 for each person.

G. Barbouttis, P. Brownlee, B. Carty, K. Deacon, T. Fulde, A. Gorringe, J. Innes, N. Jarvis, S. Matchett, S. McClay, A. McEwin, S. Rae, G. Welldon, R. Ladd and S. Everson.

Proceedings on Behalf of Company

No person has applied for leave of Court to bring proceedings on behalf of the Society or intervene in any proceedings to which the Society is a party for the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the Society for all or any part of those proceedings. The Society was not a party to any such proceedings during the year.

Non-audit Services

The board of directors is satisfied that the provision of non-audit services during the year is compatible with the general standard of independence for auditors imposed by the Corporations Act 2001. The directors’ are satisfied that the services disclosed below

did not compromise the external auditor’s independence as the nature of the services provided do not compromise the general principles relating to auditor independence as set out in the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia and CPA Australia’s Professional Statement F1: Professional Independence.

The fees for non-audit services that were paid/payable to the external auditors during the year ended 30 June 2009 are detailed in Note 5 to this report.

Auditor’s Independence Report

The auditor’s independence declaration for the year ended 30 June 2009 has been received and can be found on page ?? of the financial report.

This report is made and signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors.

A. A. Gorringe G. M. BarbouttisDirector Director

Sydney, 31 August 2009

AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION UNDER SECTION 370C OF THE CORPORATIONS ACT 2001 TO THE DIRECTORS

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, during the year ended 30 June, 2009 there have been:(i) no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Corporations

Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and(ii) no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

Benbow & Pike G. J. AbramsChartered Accountants Partner 13/263 Alfred Street (North)North Sydney NSW 2060 Sydney, 31 August 2009

23

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 30 JUNE 2009Note 2009

$

2008

$

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

18

6

3,868,781

744,129

3,661,930

618,086

Total Current Assets 4,612,910 4,280,016

Non-Current Assets

Trade and other receivables

Financial assets

Property, plant and equipment

6

7

8

-

9,101,150

339,119

68,500

11,358,322

382,832

Total Non-Current Assets 9,440,269 11,809,654

Total Assets 14,053,179 16,089,670

Current Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Short term provisions

9

10

666,632

282,795

830,020

288,938

Total Current Liabilities 949,427 1,118,958

Non-Current Liabilities

Long term provisions 11 136,700 195,655

Total Non-Current Liabilities 136,700 195,655

Total Liabilities 1,086,127 1,314,613

Net Assets 12,967,052 14,775,057

Equity

Reserves

Retained earnings

12 5,566,132

7,400,920

5,566,132

9,208,925

Total Equity 12,967,052 14,775,057

STATEMENT OF RECOGNISED INCOME AND EXPENDITUREFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2009

Note2009

$

2008

$

Retained Earnings

Balance at beginning of year 9,208,925 10,150,896

Profit/(loss) attributable to the entity (1,808,005) (941,971)

Balance at end of year 7,400,920 9,208,925

Capital Profits Reserve

Balance at beginning of year 5,524,460 5,524,460

Transfer on sale of property - -

Balance at end of year 5,524,460 5,524,460

Asset Revaluation Reserve

Balance at beginning of year - 1,132,425

Increase/(Decrease) in year (Financial Assets) - (1,132,425)

Balance at end of year - -

Service Development Reserve

Balance at beginning of year 41,672 63,172

Movement - (21,500)

Balance at end of year 41,672 41,672

24

1. Corporate Information

The financial report of The Deaf Society of New South Wales, as an individual entity, for the year ended 30 June 2009 was authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of directors on 31 August 2009.

The Deaf Society of New South Wales is a company limited by guarantee, incorporated and domiciled in Australia. In the event of the Society being wound up each member guarantees to contribute an amount not exceeding two dollars ($2.00) to the assets of the Society. At 30 June 2009 the number of members was 108.

The nature of operations and principal activity of the Society in the course of the financial year was the provision of services to Deaf people.

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Preparation

The financial report is a general purpose financial report which has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, including Australian Accounting Interpretations other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, the Corporations Act 2001 and the NSW Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and Regulations.

Australian Accounting Standards set out accounting policies that the AASB has concluded would result in a financial report containing relevant and reliable information about transactions, events and conditions to which they apply. Material accounting policies adopted in the preparation of this financial report are presented below. They have been consistently applied unless otherwise stated.

The financial report has been prepared on

an accruals basis and is based on historical costs modified, where applicable, by the measurement at fair value of selected non-current assets, financial assets and financial liabilities.

Revenue

Government grants are recognised in the income statement when it is controlled. When there are conditions attached to grant revenue relating to the use of those grants for specific purposes it is recognised in the balance sheet as a liability until such conditions are met or services provided

Donations and bequests are recognised as revenue when received unless they are designated for a specific purpose, where they are carried forward as prepaid income on the balance sheet.

Interest income and distribution income from investments is recognized on a proportional basis taking into account the interest rates applicable to the financial assets.

Revenue from the rendering of a service is recognised upon the delivery of the service to customers.

All revenue is stated net of the amount of goods and services tax (GST).

Property, Plant and Equipment

Each class of property, plant and equipment is carried at cost or fair value less, where applicable, any accumulated depreciation and impairment loss.

Plant and equipment

Furniture and fittings, office equipment and motor vehicles are measured on the cost basis.

The carrying amount of plant and equipment is reviewed annually by directors to ensure it is not in excess of the recoverable amount

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 30 June 2009

CASH FLOW STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2009

Note2009

$

2008

$

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

Receipts from activities 2,073,413 2,145,821

Payments to suppliers and employees (4,176,713) (3,626,115)

Interest, dividends and distributions received 1,043,425 919,234

Bequests 103,613 26,000

Grants and subsidies received 1,225,959 1,344,476

Net cash provided/(used in) operating activities 18 269,697 809,416

Cash Flows From Investing Activities

Payment for property, plant and equipment (162,417) (324,617)

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 104,569 176,931

Purchase of investments (4,998) (4,310,629)

Proceeds from sale of investments - 3,749,351

Net cash provided/(used in) investing activities (62,846) (708,964)

Net (decrease)/increase in cash held 206,851 100,452

Cash at the beginning of the financial year 3,661,930 3,561,478

Cash at the end of the financial year 19 3,868,781 3,661,930

25

from these assets. The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of the expected net cash flows that will be received from the assets employment and subsequent disposal. The expected net cash flows have not been discounted to their present values in determining recoverable amounts.

Plant and equipment that have been contributed at no cost or for nominal cost are valued at the fair value of the asset at the date it is acquired.

Increases in the carrying amount arising on revaluation of land and buildings are credited to revaluation reserve in equity. Decreases that offset previous increases on the same classes of assets are charged against fair value reserves directly in equity; all other decreases are charged to the income statement. Each year the difference between depreciation based on the revalued carrying amount of the asset charged to the income statement and depreciation based on the asset’s original cost is transferred from the revaluation reserve to retained earnings.

The straight line method has been used to calculate depreciation on buildings, furniture and fittings, office equipment and motor vehicles so as to write off the original cost of the assets over their estimated useful lives.

The depreciation rates used for each class of depreciable assets are:

Class of fixed asset Depreciation rate

Furniture and Fittings 10%Computing equipment 50%Office equipment 20%Motor Vehicles 20%

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed and adjusted if appropriate at each balance sheet date. An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater

than its estimated recoverable amount.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with the carrying amount. These gains and losses are included in the income statement. When revalued assets are sold, amounts included in the revaluation reserve relating to that asset are transferred to retained earnings.

Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement

Financial instruments, incorporating financial assets and financial liabilities, are recognised when the Society becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial instruments are initially measured at cost on the trade date, which includes transaction costs, when the related contractual rights or obligations exist. Subsequent to initial recognition these instruments are measured as set out below.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are stated at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Held to Maturity Investments

Held to maturity investments are non derivative financial assets that have fixed maturities and fixed or determinable payments, and it is the association’s intention to hold these investments to maturity. They are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Available-for-sale financial assets

Available-for-sale financial assets are non-derivative financial assets that are either designated as such or that are classified in any of the other categories. They comprise

investments in the equity of other entities where there is neither a fixed maturity nor fixed or determinable payments.

Financial liabilities

Non-derivative financial liabilities are recognised at amortised cost, comprising original debt less principal payments and amortisation.

Fair Value

Fair value is determined based on current bid prices for all quoted investments.

Impairment

Impairment of financial assets is considered to have arisen when a prolonged decline in the value of the instrument is evident. Impairment losses are recognized in the income statement.

Impairment of Assets

At each reporting date, the group reviews the carrying values of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have been impaired. If such an indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset, being the higher of the asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use, is compared to the asset’s carrying value. Any excess of the asset’s carrying value over its recoverable amount is expensed to the income statement.

Employee Benefits

Provision is made for the liability for employee benefits arising from services rendered by employees to balance date. Employee benefits expected to be settled within one year together with entitlements arising from wages and salaries and annual leave which will be settled after one year, have been measured at the amount expected to be paid when the liability is settled plus related on costs. Other

employee benefits payable later than one year have been measured at the present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be made for those benefits.

Contributions are made by the economic entity to employee superannuation funds and are charged as expenses when incurred.

Income Tax

There is no income tax payable by the Society as it is exempt under the current provisions of Australian income tax legislation.

Goods and Services Tax

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST. Receivables and payables in the statement of financial position are shown inclusive of GST. Cash flows are presented in the Cash Flow Statement on a net basis.

Unexpended Grants

The Society receives grant monies to fund projects either for contracted periods of time or for specific projects irrespective of the period of time required to complete these projects. It is the policy of the Society to treat grants monies as unexpended grants in the balance sheet when the Society is contractually obliged to provide the services in a subsequent financial period to when the grant is received or in the case of specific project grants where the project has not been completed.

Comparative Figures

Where required by Accounting Standards comparative figures have been adjusted to conform with changes in presentation for the current financial year.

26

5. Auditors’ Remuneration 2009$

2008$

Amounts received or due and receivable by the auditors:Auditing the accounts 17,400 16,500

Other Services in respect of income tax matters and accounting services. 3,332 10,438

6. Trade And Other ReceivablesCurrent

Debtors and prepayments 754,889 623,086Less Doubtful Debt Provision 10,760 5,000

744,129 618,086Non CurrentMullauna Village Aged Care Hostel

Accommodation units - at cost 16,500 88,000Less: Provision for non recovery 16,500 19,500

- 68,5007. Financial AssetsAvailable for SaleUnits in listed property trusts at fair value

SPDR Property Fund (Cost $3,565,444; 2008: $3,565,444) 1,464,339 2,686,041

Units in unlisted unit trusts at fair value Schroder Hybrid Securities Fund(Cost $3,932,784; 2008: $ 3,932,784) 3,350,799 3,539,836

Shares in listed corporations at fair value(Cost $5,403,783; 2008: $5,398,785) 4,286,012 5,132,445

9,101,150 11,358,322As at 30 June 2009, the impairment loss for the year on the value of these financial assets in the sum of $2,262,171 is recognised in the income statement.

Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments

The directors evaluate estimates and judgments incorporated into the financial report based on historical knowledge and best available current information. Estimates assume a reasonable expectation of future events and are based on current trends and economic data, obtained both externally and internally.

Key estimates – Impairment

The Society assesses impairment at each reporting date by evaluating conditions specific to it that may lead to impairment of assets. Where an impairment trigger exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined. Fair value less costs to sell or current replacement cost calculations performed in assessing recoverable amounts incorporate a number of key estimates.

4. Remuneration And Retirement Benefits

Directors:

No director of the Society receives any remuneration or retirement benefit except for the payment on their behalf of directors and officers liability premiums of $219 each.

The names of directors of the Society who have held office during the year are;

G. Barbouttis, P. Brownlee, B Carty, K. Deacon, T. Fulde, A. Gorringe, J. Innes, N. Jarvis, S. Matchett, S. McClay, A. McEwin, S. Rae and G. Welldon.

Executive Officers:

The total remuneration paid to S. Everson, Executive Director - Corporate and R. Ladd, Executive Director - Services of the Society including superannuation contributions and termination payments was in the band $170,000 to $180,000.

On 27 February 2009 R. Ladd, Executive Director – Services resigned from the Society and S Everson was appointed as acting Chief Executive Officer for the duration of the financial year. On 1 July 2009 S Everson was formally appointed as Chief Executive Officer.

3. Profit From Ordinary Activities2009

$

2008

$

Profit from ordinary activities has been determined after:

Expenses:

Depreciation - furniture, fittings, office equipment and vehiclesBad and Doubtful DebtsLoss on sale of property, plant and equipment

105,01613,410

-

76,414-

3,065

Rent paid 239,773 233,618

Revenues:

Donations and appeals 36,984 36,609

Fees for service 1,333,757 1,291,167

Grants and subsidies 1,413,422 1,368,204

Interest received or receivable 227,825 276,308

Distributions received 506,450 1,704,526

Dividends received 227,727 150,464

Imputation credit refund 114,519 75,879

Training Income 704,393 781,308

Profit on sale of property, plant and equipment 3,455

Other 29,054 1,896

4,597,586 5,686,361

Significant revenues/expenses:

Profit/(Loss) on sale of investments - (1,139,444)

Impairment in fair value of available for sale financial assets (2,262,171) (1,538,691)

Bequests received 103,613 26,000

(2,158,558) (2,652,135)


27

8. Property, Plant And Equipment 2009$

2008$

Plant and Equipment

Parramatta Office - at cost 151,171 149,898

Accumulated depreciation (138,502) (136,154)

12,669 13,744

Hunter Office - at cost 12,557 11,431


996 -

Office Equipment - at cost 221,260 200,724


44,335 41,891

Client Management and Website - at cost 57,020 38,850


35,672 30,859

Northern Rivers - at cost 5,162 5,162


232 465

Motor Vehicles - at cost 304,616 334,073


245,215 295,873

Total plant and equipment 339,119 382,832

8. Movements in Carrying AmountsMovements in the carrying amounts for each class of property, plant and equipment between the beginning and the end of the current financial year, are as follows:

Parramatta Office

Office Equipment

ClientManagement

NorthernRivers

Motor Vehicles

Hunter Total

2008

Balance at the beginning of year 16,004 54,725 - 1,137 243,209 - 315,075

Additions - - 38,850 - 285,317 - 324,167

Disposals - (159) - - (179,837) - (179,996)

Fair Value Diminution - - - - - - -

Depreciation (2,260) (12,675) (7,991) (672) (52,816) - (76,414)

Carrying amount at the end of year 13,744 41,891 30,859 465 295,873 - 382,832

2009

Balance at the beginning of year 13,744 41,891 30,859 465 295,873 - 382,832

Additions 1,273 20,536 18,170 - 121,312 1,126 162,417

Disposals - - - - (101,114) - (101,114)

Fair Value Diminution - - - - - - -

Depreciation (2,348) (18,092) (13,357) (233) (70,856) (130) (105,016)

Carrying amount at the end of year 12,669 44,335 35,672 232 245,215 996 339,119

28

2009$

2008$

9. Trade And Other Payables

Trade and other creditors 666,632 830,020

10. Short Term Provisions

Employee entitlements – Annual leave

Provision for deaf community centre

185,995

96,800

192,138

96,800

282,795 288,938

11. Long Term Provisions

Employee entitlements – Long service leave 136,700 195,655

Note (a) Aggregate employee benefits 322,695 387,793

(b) Number of employees at year end 52 49

12. Reserves

Asset revaluation reserve - -

Capital profits reserve 5,524,460 5,524,460

Service development reserve 41,672 41,672

5,566,132 5,566,132

Movements in reserves are detailed in the Statement of Recognised Income and Expediture

13. Leasing Commitments

Operating Lease Commitments:

Non-cancellable operating leases contracted for but not capitalised in the financial statements.

Payable:

not later than one year 167,914 184,575

later than one year but not later than five years 1,126,668 17,255

Later than five years 281,175 -

1,575,757 201,830

14. Related Party Transactions

There were no related party transactions this year.

15. Financial Instruments

(a) Financial risk management – objectives and policies

The Society’s financial instruments comprise cash and cash equivalents and available for sale financial investments. In addition the Society has various financial assets and liabilities including amounts receivable for services rendered and amounts payable to trade and other creditors.

The main risks arising from the Society’s financial instruments are interest rate risk, liquidity risk, credit risk and market price risk. The company does not hold financial instruments denominated in foreign currencies and does not use derivative instruments to manage risks associated with its financial instruments.

The Society’s policies for managing each of these risks are summarised below. The policies are subject to Board approval and are reviewed regularly.

Interest Rate Risk

The Society is exposed to interest rate fluctuations on its cash at bank and cash on deposit investments. The Society actively monitors interest rates for cash at bank and on deposit to maximize interest income. The Society accepts the risk in relation to fixed interest securities as they are held to generate income on surplus funds.

Liquidity Risk

The Society manages liquidity risk by monitoring forecast cash flows and ensuring that adequate liquid funds are maintained.

Credit Risk

The Society is exposed to credit risk in respect of amounts receivable and in respect of funds deposited with banks and other financial institutions. The majority of amounts receivable are due from government departments and any amounts outstanding beyond the contracted period are followed up. Funds deposited with banks and other financial institutions are approved by the Board. At the reporting date the Society does not have any material credit risk exposures to any single receivable or group of receivables or any bank or financial institution.

Market Price Risk

Market price risk is the risk that the Society’s operations will be adversely affected by a significant adverse fluctuation on the value of its available for sale investments. The Society has engaged Eclipse Asset Management Pty Limited to advise on the management of its investment portfolio. The Board has approved risk and return parameters for investment in available-for-sale investments and receives reports from management and Eclipse Asset Management Pty Limited on a quarterly basis regarding the performance of the investment portfolio.


29

2009 2008

Weighted Average Effective

Interest Rate

Floating Interest

Rate

Non Interest Bearing

Total

Weighted Average Effective Interest

Rate

Floating Interest

Rate

Non Interest Bearing

Total

Financial Assets

Cash at Bank 0.05 535,394 535,394 0.08 298,930 298,930

Cash on Deposit 4.36 3,331,537 3,331,537 8.20 3,361,050 3,361,050

Cash on Hand 1,850 1,850 1,950 1,950

Trade and Other Receivables 744,129 744,129 618,086 618,086

Investments 9,101,150 9,101,150 11,358,322 11,358,322

3,866,931 9,847,129 13,714,060 3,659,980 11,978,358 15,638,338

Financial Liabilities

Trade and Other Payables 666,632 666,632 830,020 830,020

666,632 666,632 830,020 830,020


(b) Fair values

Carrying amounts of financial assets and liabilities recorded in the financial statements represent their net fair values, as determined in accordance with the accounting policies disclosed in Note 2.

(c) Interest rate risk

The entity’s exposure to interest rate risk, which is the risk that a financial instruments value will fluctuate as a result of changes in market interest rates and the effective weighted average interest rates on those financial assets and financial liabilities, is as follows:

16. Events After the Balance Date

Since balance date, no matter or circumstance has arisen which significantly affect or may significantly affect the operations of the Society, the results of those operations or the state of the affairs of the Society in the financial years subsequent to the financial year ended 30 June 2009. As from 1 July 2009, Ms Sharon Everson was appointed Chief Executive Officer.

17. Entity Details

The registered office and principal place of business of the Society is:

The Deaf Society of New South WalesSuite 401 Level 4169 Macquarie StreetParramatta NSW 2150

18. Reconciliation Of Cash Flow From Operations With Profit From Ordinary Activities

2009$

2008$

Profit/(loss) from ordinary activities after significant items (1,808,005) (941,971)

Cash flows excluded from profit from ordinary activities attributable to operating activitiesExpenses incurred – Service Development Reserve - (21,500)

Adjustment for non-cash items

Depreciation 105,016 76,414

Provision for doubtful debts 5,760 2,900

(Profit)/loss on sale of non-current assets (3,455) 3,065

(Profit)/loss on sale of investments - 1,139,467

Distributions re-invested - (1,225,736)

Impairment in fair value of investments 2,262,171 1,538,691

2,369,492 1,534,801

Change in operating assets and liabilities

(Increase)/decrease in debtors (63,304) 71,240

Increase/(decrease) in payables (163,388) 74,936

Increase/(decrease) in provisions (65,098) 91,910

(291,790) 238,086

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operations 269,697 809,416

19. Reconciliation Of CashFor the purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash includes cash on hand, cash on deposit, in banks and investments in money market instruments, net of outstanding bank overdrafts. Cash at the end of the financial year as shown in the statement of cash flows is reconciled to the related items in the balance sheet as follows:

Cash on hand 1,850 1,950

Cash on deposit 3,331,537 3,361,050

Cash at bank 384,179 251,674

Cash at bank – Donations 151,215 47,256

3,868,781 3,661,930

30

INFORMATION AND DECLARATIONS TO BE FURNISHED UNDER THE

CHARITABLE FUNDRAISING ACT, 1991

INCOME AND EXPENDITURE OF FUNDRAISING APPEALS FOR THE YEAR

ENDED 30 JUNE 2009

2009$

2008$INCOME

Annual mail appeal 21,894 28,704

Donations 13,950 7,762

Merchandise Sales 128 143

Total Fundraising Income 35,972 36,609

EXPENDITURE

Postage, printing, stationery 2,217 4,117

Total Cost of Fundraising 2,217 4,117

NET SURPLUS 33,755 32,492

The surplus for the year is used to ameliorate the deficits incurred by the Society in providing vital services, in particular support for members of the Deaf Community and their families in rural and regional areas. In the 2009 year, these deficits totalled $574,360 (2008: $481,393).

% %Total cost of fundraising on fundraising income 6 11

Net surplus on fundraising income 94 89

Total cost of services on expenditure 90 93

Total cost of services on income 83 65

Note: * Fundraising income excludes bequests, as it is not considered to represent income from active fundraising.

* There were no fundraising activities conducted jointly with traders.

Declaration by the President in respect of fundraising appeals

I, Anthony Gorringe, President of The Deaf Society of New South Wales declare, that in my opinion:

(a) the accounts give a true and fair view of all income and expenditure of The Deaf Society of New South Wales

with respect to fundraising appeals; and

(b) the statement of financial position gives a true and fair view of the state of affairs with respect to fundraising

appeals; and

(c) the provision of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and the regulations under that Act and the conditions

attached to the authority have been complied with; and

(d) the internal controls exercised by The Deaf Society of New South Wales are appropriate and effective in

accounting for all income received and applied by the Society from any of its fundraising appeals.

A. A. Gorringe President

31 August 2009

DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION

The directors of The Deaf Society of New South Wales declare that:

1. the financial statements and notes, as set out on pages 22 – 30, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and:

(a) comply with Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and

(b) give a true and fair view of the financial position as at 30 June 2009 and of the performance for the year ended on that date of the Society;

2. in the directors’ opinion there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Society will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.

A. A. Gorringe G. M. BarbouttisDirector Director


INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT TO THE MEMBERS

Report on the Financial Report

We have audited the financial report of The Deaf Society of New South Wales which comprises the balance sheet as at 30 June 2009 and the income statement, statement of recognised income and expenditure and cash flow statement for the year ended 30 June 2009 a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes and the directors declaration as set out on pages 22 to 31.

Directors Responsibilty

The Society’s directors are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Act 2001. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies, and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.

Auditors Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement.


31

We also report that:

(a) the financial statements show a true and fair view of the financial result of fundraising appeals conducted during the year

(b) the accounting and associated records have been properly kept during the year in accordance with the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and the Regulations

(c) money received as a result of fundraising appeals conducted during the year has been properly accounted for and applied in accordance with the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991and the Regulations and;

(d) at the date of this report, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the company will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.

Benbow & Pike G. J. AbramsChartered Accountants Partner13/263 Alfred Street (North)North Sydney NSW 2060


An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the management committee, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Independence

In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.

Audit Opinion

In our opinion the financial report of The Deaf Society of New South Wales is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

(i) giving a true and fair view of the Society’s financial position as at 30 June 2009 and of its performance for the year ended on that date; and

(ii) complying with Accounting Standards in Australia and the Corporations Regulations 2001

Compilation Report

We have compiled the accompanying special purpose financial statements of the The Deaf Society of New South Wales, which comprise the balance sheet as at 30 June 2009, the income statement for the year then ended, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes. The specific purpose for which the special purpose financial statements have been prepared is set out in Note 1.

The Responsibility of the Directors

The directors of The Deaf Society of New South Wales are solely responsible for the information contained in the special purpose financial statements and have determined that the significant accounting policies adopted as set out in Note 1 to the financial statements are appropriate to meet their needs and for the purpose that the financial statements were prepared.

Our Responsibility

On the basis of information provided by the directors of The Deaf Society of New South Wales we have compiled the accompanying special purpose financial statements in accordance with the significant accounting policies adopted as set out in Note 1 to the financial statements and APES 315: Compilation of Financial Information.

Our procedures use accounting expertise to collect, classify and summarise the financial information, which the directors provided, in compiling the financial statements. Our procedures do not include verification or validation procedures. No audit or review has been performed and accordingly no assurance is expressed.

The special purpose financial statements were compiled exclusively for the benefit of the

directors of The Deaf Society of New South Wales We do not accept responsibility to any other person for the contents of the special purpose financial statements.

Benbow & Pike G. J. AbramsChartered Accountants Partner13/263 Alfred Street (North)North Sydney NSW 2060


32

INCOME

Corporate Services

Distributions received 883,580 2,088,562

Interest received 166,963 109,290

Management fees 71,292 21,219

Sundry Income 3,455 547

Fundraising

Donations and Appeals 35,844 36,466

Membership fees 1,140 985

Sundry Income 913 143


Grant - NSW Dept of Ageing Disability and Home Care 197,235 190,936

Grant - ANZ ISLP Video - 6,282

Grant - auDA Foundation - 8,807

Grant - Cancer Council - 4,800

Grant – Community Relations Commission Language Services 5,000 -

Grant - Dept of Ageing and Health 1,000 1,000

Grant – Dept of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology - 7,920

Grant – Law & Justice Foundation 29,701 9,812

Grant - Holroyd Council - 2,400

Grant – Marrickville Council 1,040 -

Grant - Parramatta City Council 3,970 6,105

Grant – Sports for Women - 2,642

Grant – New South Wales Department of Health 909 -

Grant – WorkCover - 2,080

Grant - WSAAS Parent to Parent Mentoring 16,559 31,973

Fees for Service 27,297 1,701


Unity in Diversity

Grant - NSW Dept Comm Services - AAS 9,337 38,449

Detached Family Worker

Grant - NSW Dept of Community Services 95,900 92,836

Staff Support & Program Development


Sundry Income 630 -

Independent Living Skills


Attendant Care


Regional Service

Northern Rivers Grant - NSW Dept of Ageing Disability and Home Care 75,990 73,563

Hunter Region Grant - NSW Dept of Ageing Disability and Home Care 34,806 33,693

Coffs Coast Region – Fee for Service - 6,640


Auslan Interpreting Service - Fees for Service 739,888 706,332


DEN - Education and Training

Vocational Education and Training (VET) Course fees 117,048 105,386

Community Course Fees 89,593 88,163

DAT - Fees for Service 24,140 11,974

Heritage School Fees 6,763 4,527

Grant – NSW Dept of Education and Training (BACE) Funding 379,176 402,516

Grant – NSW Dept of Education and Training (SSP) Funding 22,611 106,504


Interest Received 31,276 9,324



Grant - Dept of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations 529,724 463,794

National Relay Service


Total Income 4,597,586 5,686,361

EXPENDITURE

Financial administration, property expenses 326,039 253,807

Appeals expenses 14,366 12,593


Sydney Metropolitan 387,710 354,526

Unity and Diversity 9,337 38,449

Detached Family Worker 95,900 92,836

Staff Support and Program Development 132,360 145,378

Community Worker/Interpreter Older People 16,088 13,596

Special Projects 138,617 127,747

Independent Living Skills Program

Independent Living Skills Program 318,581 311,675

325 Funding 53,610 53,603

Regional Services

Regional Services 95,541 73,679

Hunter Region 64,381 57,522

Northern Rivers 83,565 76,679

Coffs Coast Region 20,593 18,048

Tamworth 22,044 -

Wollongong 19,290 -


Auslan Interpreting Services 692,121 596,432

Community Liaison 118,013 113,351

DEN - Education and Training 737,195 802,217

Employment and Workplace Support 484,955 372,950

National Relay Service 416,727 461,110

Total Expenditure 4,247,033 3,976,197

Profit from ordinary activities before significant items 350,553 1,710,164

2009$

2008$

2009$

2008$

2009$

2008$

Statement of Income and Expenditure for the Year Ended 30 June 2009

$100 and over

Aldavilla Primary School

A J Bush and Sons

G Arnott

F Aspinall

J Baxter

A Bean

D Beaver

P Bender

J Bonner

R Bradfield

H Cadell

I Campbell

V Caradus

N Carruthers

Child Support Agency Staff

Cobar Memorial Women’s Bowling Club

L & I Collins

R Craig

E Crisp

M Cunningham

D Curtin

D Davis

Deaf Senior Citizens Group Sydney

N Dicker

D Dowd

O Dunk

A Eyles

R Farmer

E Finckh

K Forsyth

M Furner

J Gambrill

R Garrard

B Glockerman

W Govan

A Graham

H Grant

M Green

E Greig

P Griffin

J Halden

J Harland

E Hart

D Henderson

A Hertzberg

M Hill

R Horley

R Howson

Hunters Hill School Students Council

J Jervis

L Johnson

N Jones

P Keast

J Krone

L Lee

Lioness Club of Rutherford

Lions Club of Singleton

T McKay

Magdalene Catholic High School

I Mensdorff-Pouilly

R Mewburn

C Maher

V Newman

B Parker

M Parker

J Petersen

V Phillips

K Pigram

S Rae

M Redding

J Roach

J Roseth

E Ross

P Ryba

G Savage

M Scarr

R Segal

Shoalhaven Women’s Bowling Club

D Shultz

C Sinclair

R Smart

J Stevenson

T and L Ta

F Tannous

Techflare Solutions Pty Ltd

Thomas Pattison School - Transition Class

G Thompson

A Tidex

Torlee Investments

F Vio

J Wall

R Wallis

Whelan Investments Pty Ltd

A Whiteman

A Whittle

L Wilcox

J Wilson

C Wilhelm

G Wirrell

$500 and over

L Collins

Fradam Pty Ltd

D Fried

B Gardiner

M Macarthur

E Murray

B Rowe

H Rowe

$1,000 and over

A W Byrne Equity

R Gledhill

J Smith

$2,000 and over

S Everson

J Smith

$7,000 and over

J Church

It is heartening to note that even during these current difficult economic times we can continue to rely on the loyalty of our supporters. This ongoing generosity helps the Deaf Society to undertake new initiatives as well as supplement funding for our vital services for Deaf people and their families.

The Board of Directors gratefully acknowledges the generous assistance by our many donors, both individual and corporate. The Board would also like to place on record its thanks to members of women’s bowling clubs throughout the State for their continued financial assistance towards our programs.

MAJOR DONATIONS

Acknowledgements

DEFERRED GIVING - Philanthropy in life can benefit in perpetuityThe Society is indeed fortunate that many benefactors choose to make a bequest to the Deaf Society, after providing for their family and loved ones. This help can make a real difference to Deaf people and their families.

If you are making a bequest to the Deaf Society of NSW and would like advice, please contact the Chief Executive Officer in complete confidence on (02) 8833 3600.

We would like to place on record our appreciation for the following bequests received during the year.

BEQUESTS AND LEGACIES • EstateofthelateNancyIsabelBroad •EstateofthelateArthurFrederickSimpson• EstateofthelateHelenMargaretTaylor

Richard Aarden

Elizabeth Bonilla

Peter Brownlee

Bridget Carty

Anna Cheshire

Evelyn Christie

Jennifer Clements

Judy Clews

Mary Cook

Gail Cox

Alva Cross

Margaret Dale

Lorraine D’arcy

Margaret Day

Ken Deacon

Elizabeth Doolan

Alan Eldridge

Margaret Ewing

Lilian Fox

Tiffany Fulde

Kay Gorringe

John Gould

Charlene Grace

Nicole Gray

Sundari Gwynne

Alana Hall

Jenny Hannan

Peter Hannan

Lyn Hartmann

Keith Hinton

Pauline Hume

Jane Innes

Inge Jahn

Karen Jahn

Nicolas Jarvis

Dennis Johnston

Gordana Kalanj

Therese Kassab

George Krams

Natalie Kull

Stephen Lawlor

Michael Lockrey

Annette Lüders

Jack Lyons

Gloria Marion

Stephen Matchett

Stewart McClay

Andrew McCredie

Kevin McDonald

John McNamara

David McQuiggin

Ian Middleton

Patricia Mutton

Andrew Myles

Sharon Nann

Jitka Navratil

Elke Nicholson

Helen Nicholson

Ron Nicholson

Alex Nyam

Betty O’Brien

David Parker

Lynda Parry

Claire Perry

Frank Peterson

Gianna Petris

Ann Porter

Joyce Price

Kerry Priem

Sue Rae

Anne Rhodes

Trevor Rhodes

Rebecca Schultz

Ruth Segal

Christopher Sinclair

Valma Stebbings

Margaret Steedman

Wanda Stewart

Rebecca Stoker

Carol Tiley

John Trevanion (Jnr)

Joyce Tully

Rebecca Walker

Sheena Walters

Glenn Welldon

Kathy Wilson

Life Members

Colin Allen

George Barbouttis, OAM

Dr V D Bear, AM

Ron Bryant

Nola Colefax, OAM

Barry Duggan

Ethel Goff

Anthony Gorringe

Michael Hedley

Anthony Houen, AM

Alexandra Hynes

Peter Miller

Harry Roberts

Adam Salzer, AM

Brian Surtees

Ben Taylor, OAM

Ray Todd

Kenneth Tribe, AC

Steven Turner

Ray Whitten

Members as at 30 June 2009

THE DEAF SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES – LOCATIONS AND CONTACT DETAILS

This Report was presented to members at the Deaf Society’s 96th Annual General Meeting held on 28 November 2009. An electronic copy can be downloaded from our website www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/information/annual_reports.html

w w w. d e a f s o c i e t y n s w. o r g . a u To contact the Deaf Society from outside Sydney, Phone (Voice): 1800 893 855 TTY: 1800 893 885 Fax: 1800 898 333

Parramatta (Head Office)Suite 401, Level 469 Phillip St, Parramatta NSW 2150PO Box 1060, Parramatta NSW 2124Phone: (02) 8833 3600TTY: (02) 8833 3691Fax: (02) 8833 3699Email: [email protected]

New England OfficeTamworth Community CentreDarling St, Tamworth NSW 2340 PO Box 161, Tamworth NSW 2340Phone/SMS: 0406 672 500TTY: 1800 893 885Fax: (02) 6762 4542Email: [email protected]

South Coast OfficeCorner of Ash Ave & Tongarra Rd,Albion Park Rail NSW 2527PO Box 282, Shellharbour City Centre NSW 2529Phone/SMS: 0406 940 899TTY: (02) 4295 4935Fax: (02) 4295 4935Email: [email protected]

Northern NSW OfficeSuite 2, 7 Carrington St, Lismore NSW 2480PO Box 1148, Lismore NSW 2480Phone: (02) 6622 5572TTY: (02) 6622 4087Fax: (02) 6622 4087Email: [email protected]

Hunter OfficeLevel 3, CML Building, 108-110 Hunter St,Newcastle NSW 2300PO Box 1098, Newcastle NSW 2300Phone: (02) 4929 7494 or 0410 909 286TTY: (02) 4929 7494Fax: (02) 4929 1404Email: [email protected]

Coffs Coast Office109 Albany St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450PO Box 1076, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450Phone: (02) 6651 9692TTY: (02) 6651 9692Fax: (02) 6651 3815Email: [email protected]

Central CoastBy appointment onlyNiagara Park Community Centre, Washington Ave, Niagara Park Phone/SMS: 0410 909 286Email: [email protected]

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